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18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Tanzania

One of the most exceptional safari travel spots on the planet, Tanzania is home to some of the world’s richest landscapes and prosperous wildlife. Bordering Kenya and Zambia, the country is the largest in East Africa. More than 120 ethnic groups live in the country.

For example, near the Serengeti National Park are the Massai people. This semi-nomadic tribe is one of the most well-known for its elaborate clothing designs and followings of tradition.

Tanzania is famous for many tourist attractions, including homing the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the world’s largest migration of mammals, the Great Migration.

Grand safaris take you up close and personal with some of the largest mammals on earth, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos. Hikes through the numerous national parks are among the most fun things to do in Tanzania and present the opportunity to glimpse endemic and endangered species.

A trip to Tanzania guarantees a unique and memorable experience you’ll never forget!

18. Katavi National Park

An extension of the Rift Valley, Katavi National Park is notorious for its thriving herds of buffalo. In fact, the park is home to one of the largest in the world.

Katavi National Park is home to more than buffaloes. Throughout the gloriously untouched remote park are hippo and crocodile-dotted rivers, luscious forests, and sprawling grasslands. People travel from all over the world to experience nature’s impactfulness in Katavi National Park and to find the iconic tamarind tree.

Legends say that the tamarind tree houses the spirit of Katabi, a great huntsman. So today, locals give offerings to the tree in honor of the hunter.

One of the most popular things to do in Katavi National Park is game viewing to catch sight of some of the world’s largest land animals. And at Katavi Wildlife Camp, a unique lodging within the park which blends seamlessly into the plains, you can join the buffalos and lions as they traverse the Katuma Plains. It’s an experience that can never be competed with!

17. Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Located between the Morogoro and Iringa regions, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, offering up thriving ecosystems with diverse species.

Within the park are a miombo forest, a mountain forest, a tropical rainforest, a steppe, and grasslands that make Udzungwa Mountains National Park incredibly popular for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The ecosystems feature rushing waterfalls, tall mountain peaks, dense forests, and numerous plant and animal species.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is famous for having the most significant population of rare monkey species, including the highly endangered Sanje-Crested Mangabey monkey.

Mountaineers can take the challenge of hiking the highest peaks of Mwanihana and Luhomero. Park guides encourage guests to bring swimsuits to dip into the pools beneath the waterfalls. You can also experience traditional dances, learn native arming, and bird watch for native species like the endemic Rufous Winged Sunbird and Udzungwa Forest Patridge.

One of the most popular waterfalls is the Sonje Waterfalls. The hike to the waterfalls is one of the most sought-out by travelers. The trail is conveniently less steep than some of the other waterfalls, though its length can be challenging. Thankfully, a swim in the waters, gazing upon these glorious falls, makes it all worthwhile!

16. Lake Victoria

One of the African Great Lakes, Lake Victoria is the world’s largest tropical lake and second-largest freshwater lake by surface area.

Lake Victoria stretches across the borders of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, near Serengeti National Park. This expansive lake makes up a collection of archipelagos dotted between the three countries, with one of the lake’s top attractions being the Rubondo Island National Park.

Rubondo Island National Park is Africa’s largest island national park, boasting a prosperous environment for giraffes, elephants, wild chimpanzees, and more fascinating animals.

These attributes make Rubondo Island National Park popular for walking, canoeing, and jungle safaris.

15. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

Part of the Great Rift Valley, the city of Arusha is famously known as the safari capital, and within this bustling city is the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre.

The first of its kind in Africa, the centre has become reputedly known for its impressive collection of artifacts and unique architecture, one of its buildings made to resemble the Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro.

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre’s expansive exhibits feature Verdite carvings, renowned African sculptures, antiques, cultural masks, and the rare gemstone, Tanzanite. One of the sections in the centre includes art specialized by the Makonde tribe, known for their distinguished wood pieces carved from ebony.

Nearby Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is the famous market, Soko Mujinja, the perfect stop afterwards to purchase fresh local goods and produce.

14. Mikumi National Park

The fourth largest national park in Tanzania, the Mikumi National Park, is renowned for its large Eland and African Wild Dog population.

Near Morogoro, the park is a favored tourist attraction that connects the largest and busiest city in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, to the town of Iringa, world-famous for its award-winning Neema Crafts Centre and woven baskets.

The Mkata Floodplain is a proud centerpiece of Mikumi National Park, full of scenic horizons and grazing wildlife species like zebras and giraffes. The waterholes are often flooded with hippos and herds of water buffalo and elephants looking to cool off and grab a drink.

There may not be any rhinos in Mikumi National Park, but that doesn’t stop the park from being one of the best safari spots in the country.

13. Gombe Stream National Park

Less than an hour from Kigoma, the capital of the Kigoma region, Gombe Stream National Park is one of the smallest national parks in the country–though just as popular as the bigger ones!

It’s here, at Gombe Stream National Park, that Jane Goodall worked with chimpanzees and other primates to complete scientific research. Jane Goodall began her studies at the park, her work becoming some of the most well-known in her craft. So it’s not hard to guess what the main attraction of Gombe Stream National Park is.

Gombe Stream National Park boasts one of Africa’s highest populations of primates. The diverse array of primates attracts visitors worldwide to the park to glimpse the different species, including chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and olive baboons.

On a safari, you can see these spectacular creatures in person, observe as they communicate with one another, and watch as some of them swing through the trees!

12. Stone Town

The historic Stone Town is found on the island of Zanzibar, nicknamed the “Spice Island” for its spice farming which plays a significant role in the island’s economy.

Stone Town preserves the rich historical past of the ancient city that dates back more than a thousand years. Numerous cultures have influenced the architecture and design of Stone Town, including Persian, Arabian, and European.

However, more modern notes can be seen throughout Stone Town due to the Sultan of Oman transitioning to Zanzibar in the 19th century.

Explore Stone Town by foot (don’t worry, the town isn’t exceptionally large!) to marvel at the exceptional designs, such as the wood-carved Zanzibari doors. Then, visit the Palace Museum, a massive white palace that once acted as the sultan’s home in the 19th century, at Stone Town’s waterfront.

Strolling through the cobbled streets is truly a unique experience made complete by heading to the harbor to watch as the different ships, tiny and large, come and go.

11. Arusha National Park

Spanning across a volcano and the second-highest mountain in the country, Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is known for being the home of the world’s largest giraffe population.

Much of its ecosystem features wildlife species not found in the northern circuit of national parks, thanks to Arusha National Park’s diverse alpine, savannah, and rainforest ecosystems. Some superior wildlife sightings found at Arusha National Park include the African fish eagle, white colobus monkeys, leopards, red duikers, bushbucks, and blue monkeys.

Arusha National Park attracts mountaineers and hikers looking for a challenge to hike to the summit of Mount Meru, which generally takes about three to four days on the Momella route. Canoeing the waters of the numerous lakes, big and small, are popular for visitors wishing to adventure the park by the water and see wildlife in action.

10. Ruaha National Park

West of Iringa, Ruaha National Park was once the largest national park in Tanzania. It’s now the second largest after Nyerere National Park expanded. And compared to the other parks, Ruaha National Park has fewer herds of tourists, making it more pleasant and rewarding to see the wildlife that isn’t being scared away!

Ruaha National Park is famous for hosting 10% of the world’s lion population and the largest population of elephants in East Africa. It also boasts rare animals with different antelope species, such as Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and sable antelope. Game viewing is widely popular in the park, with sightings of black-backed jackals, cheetahs, lions, bat-eared foxes, and elephants throughout Ruaha National Park.

Cultural tours are a unique attraction of the park that allows visitors to experience local culture, traditions, and history with the Hehe people. The tour opens the door to the stories and history of the Hehe people from watching them craft items to farming the land for resources.

9. Selous Game Reserve

Previously called the Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is Tanzania’s new largest national park. It is also one of the world’s biggest national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The reserve is reached by plane from Dar es Salaam, by a 6-7 hour long drive, or by a 4-5 hour train ride on the popular TAZARA (Tanzania Zambia Railway). The train from Sar es Salaam offers awe-inspiring sights of Tanzania’s thriving wilderness.

Carved from the Selous Game Reserve, the park has one of the biggest concentrations and diverse wildlife species. Lions and cheetahs are some of the big cats found stalking the park’s grounds.

Visitors can peer at these big cats and other big game animals across Nyerere National Park, such as rhinos, elephants, wildebeests, and Elands, for an unrivaled experience in Tanzania. Take your pick of the boat, game, hot balloon, and walking safaris. For a more personal, invigorating touch for thrill seekers, the walking safari makes for a one-of-a-kind experience through the Selous Game Reserve!

Join a nature hike with a professional tour guide to relish the beauty of Nyerere National Park. Then, experience the life of the local nomadic tribe with a traditional visit to the village.

8. Pemba Island

Part of the Zanzibar archipelago, Pemba Island is a dominant producer of cloves, with more than 70% coming from the island.

Pemba Island is adored for its stunning beaches and pristine natural beauty. The island isn’t overrun by tourists, making it the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots. Thanks to the island’s crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystems, you will find some of the best diving and swimming spots here.

The coral reef that wraps around the island is full of clownfish, sea anemones, and other marine animals that call the reef home.

Barracuda, marlins, sharks, whales, and dolphins scour the waters of the Pemba Channel, making sunset cruises another excellent opportunity to see these large species from above the surface!

7. Tarangire National Park

South of Lake Manyara in northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is named after the Tarangire River that intertwines through the park to provide resources to the local ecosystem.

A short journey from Arusha, the park is an excellent option for those looking to avoid fellow tourists and stick to seeing the magnificent landscapes and wild animals that call Tanzania home.

First, trek through Tarangire National Park on a walking safari to peer at ancient baobabs, learn about the ancient rock paintings near Kolo, and get a chance to see herds of elephants up close. Then, join a luxurious safari retreat within Tarangire National Park, like Sanctuary Swala Camp.

Bask in the majestic beauty of nature in the flat savannah surrounded by the shade of giant acacia trees with wildlife sighting opportunities within the camp.

6. Mafia Island

Largely protected by the Mafia Island Marine Park and part of an archipelago of its namesake, Mafia Island is widely favored for its prosperous marine life. As a result, the island is the first to be labeled a marine park in Tanzania.

This tropical island paradise is the perfect getaway from the more crowded tourist spots in Tanzania. It offers some of the best diving in the country thanks to its coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and marine animals such as sea turtles and whale sharks.

Deep sea fishing is a popular activity on Mafia Island, with opportunities to catch yellowfin tuna, kingfish, and great barracudas. Fun fact! The author of the Sherlock Holmes novels, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, visited Mafia Island in 1950 and broke the African record for the heaviest caught dorado at 75 pounds.

5. Lake Manyara

Near the town of Mto Wa Mbu, Lake Manyara is home to the smallest national park in Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park. It is also considered one of the best parks in the country, constructed to preserve and protect elephants from the threat of poaching.

The ecosystem thrives off Lake Manyara, helping nourish the park’s large herds of elephants, wildebeests, waterbucks, impalas, warthogs, zebras, and pink flamingos. Birdwatching around Lake Manyara is a prevalent activity thanks to the 400+ bird species that frequent the area.

Birdwatching around Lake Manyara is a prevalent activity thanks to the 400+ bird species that frequent the area.

Around Lake Manyara, you’ll find tree-climbing lions, one of the many species the park is famous for. These lions are notorious for lazing and snoozing in the acacia and other trees rather than on the ground, like most other lions in Africa.

Meeting the local Maasai people is one of the most fascinating things to do in Tanzania. The Maasai people that live on the plains have been building the huts of their homestead for thousands of years. Warriors of the Maasai people dress in red shuka, holding a spear. Don’t miss out on joining a Maasai warrior for a run, sharing a traditional meal of corn polenta, and watching the Maasai and fellow tourists participate in a leaping dance!

4. Zanzibar Beaches

The famous Zanzibar island is notorious for more than its historic Stone Town. The beaches in Zanzibar draw in crowds of tourists every year!

One of the best beaches in Zanzibar is on the island’s south coast. Here, you’ll find Kizimkazi Beach. This site is favored for its frequent bottlenose dolphin sightings, paired with the optimal location for diving and snorkeling to swimming beside other native marine species.

Kendwa Beach and Nungwi Beach are popular options in Zanzibar. Both offer prime settings for water activities. Nungwi Beach has a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to spend time soaking in the sun and exploring the water. Kendwa Beach is more upbeat, thanks to bars and resorts scattered along the beach, including Bravo Kendway Beach Resort, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

A dormant volcano and the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is also the world’s highest free-standing mountain.

Near Moshi, Arusha, the mountain draws in mountaineers from all over the world. The snow-covered summit towers in the sky, its base surrounded by grasslands. The challenge of hiking to the peak is a hefty one, but that doesn’t stop people from traveling to Mount Kilimanjaro to take up the task!

Whether a hiker, nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or mountaineer, Mount Kilimanjaro draws them in. As one of the Seven Summits, meaning the mountain is classified as the highest peak in its continent, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an experience you’ll never forget, with the thrill and rewarding accomplishment of reaching its peak.

The youngest person to reach Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit was six years old, and the oldest was 89. If they can do it, so can you!

2. Ngorongoro Crater

Previously a massive volcano, the Ngorongoro Crater is now the world’s largest intact caldera. Many believe the crater was higher than the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, before it erupted and collapsed.

Close to the town of Karatu, in the Eastern Great Rift Valley, the crater is estimated to be almost three million years old! It establishes one of the most luscious wildlife habitats on the planet.

Ngorongoro Crater’s wall soars into the sky, taller than many of the biggest skyscrapers, and stretches out to a vast expanse of thriving forests, rushing waterfalls, and marshlands.

One of the most spectacular attractions in Tanzania, the steep sides of the crater have become a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wild animals. It is also presently one of the most likely areas in Africa to see the endangered Black Rhino.

Initially, the view from above may appear as if Ngorongoro Crater is empty, but the wildlife is overflowing within, sheltering elephants and other local wildlife like baboons and leopards.

1. Serengeti National Park

Home to the iconic Serengeti featured in numerous documentaries, the Serengeti National Park is a natural wonder in the Mara region where the Great Migration finds its home. During the annual migration, millions of herbivores, including gazelles and zebras, travel to the Serengeti, their predator counterparts following along.

The ecosystem of the Serengeti is one of the oldest on the planet. People travel worldwide to witness the Great Migration to the Serengeti as impalas, elands, ostrich, and wildebeest flock to the thriving plains.

The best time of year to visit Serengeti National Park to see the migration is debatable as the herds follow the grass, frequently chasing better places to graze. However, peak season tends to the dry season (from late June to October) when the grass becomes dry and exhausted and the wildebeest and zebra start to mass in huge armies offering a spectacular wildlife show.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

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Reader interactions.

May 18, 2014 at 1:21 am

I would love to visit Tanzania some day. It’s really a wonderful place. I love wild life and I enjoy watching wildlife TV programs.

Tanzania, here i come!!!!!

May 14, 2014 at 1:14 pm

Tanzania is a lovely place to visit

September 30, 2013 at 11:01 am

I like wildlife so much,& tanzaniya is the best place to watch different different varites of wild animal, & best islands is big attraction here like mafia island, zanzibar, really tanzaniya is best

December 3, 2012 at 9:12 pm

I loved Tanzania. These photos represent the places I saw quite well.

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Must-see attractions in Tanzania

Katavi National Park

Western Tanzania

Katavi National Park, 35km southwest of Mpanda, is Tanzania’s third-largest national park (together with two contiguous game reserves the conservation…

Serengeti National Park

Northern Tanzania

Few people forget their first encounter with the Serengeti. Perhaps it's the view from the summit of Naabi Hill at the park's entrance, from where the…

Mt Kilimanjaro National Park

Since its official opening in 1977, Mt Kilimanjaro National Park has become one of Tanzania’s most visited parks. Unlike the other northern parks, this…

Mahale Mountains National Park

It’s difficult to imagine a more idyllic combination: clear, blue waters and white-sand beaches backed by lushly forested mountains soaring straight out…

Tarangire National Park

Welcome to one of Africa's most underrated parks. Thanks to its proximity to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tarangire is usually assigned only a day visit…

Ruaha National Park

Southern Highlands

At approximately 22,000 sq km, Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest. It forms the core of a wild and extended ecosystem covering about 40,000 sq km…

Gombe National Park

With an area of only 56 sq km, this is Tanzania’s smallest national park, but its famous primate inhabitants and its connection to Jane Goodall have given…

Selous Game Reserve

Southeastern Tanzania

The Selous is Africa's largest wildlife reserve, and Tanzania’s most extensive protected area. It’s home to large herds of elephants, plus buffaloes,…

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This astounding conservation area and Unesco World Heritage Site encompasses the Ngorongoro Crater, Oldupai Gorge and much of the Crater Highlands. It can…

Ol Doinyo Lengai

The northernmost (and youngest) volcano in the Crater Highlands, Ol Doinyo Lengai (2878m), ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language, is an almost perfect…

Empakaai Crater

Lake-filled Empakaai Crater, 23km northeast of Olmoti Crater, may not be as famous as Ngorongoro, but many travellers consider it to be its match in…

Rubondo Island National Park

Lake Victoria

Rubondo Island National Park, alluring for its tranquillity and sublime lakeshore scenery, is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets and there may be days…

Misali Island

Surrounded by crystal waters and stunning coral reefs, Misali offers some of the best diving in East Africa, while snorkelling is spectacular and easily…

Igeleke Rock Art

A large prehistoric frieze, similar in style to the Kondoa rock paintings, located at a spectacular site on the edge of town just west of the Dodoma road…

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Lake Manyara National Park

Enjoy a guided bird's-eye view of Manyara on Tanzania's first treetop walkway (370m). It begins at ground level and climbs gently into the canopy,…

Iringa Boma

This excellent EU-funded museum is a great new development, as is its small cafe and quality gift shop. Located between Uhuru Park and Neema, Boma is…

Neema Crafts

This acclaimed vocational training centre for young deaf and disabled people sits just southeast of the Clock Tower roundabout. Operated by the Anglican…

Matvilla Beach

The best thing to do in Musoma is visit Matvilla Beach at the tip of the peninsula, with its pinky-grey granite boulders. It’s prime sunset-watching-with…

Ngorongoro Crater

At 19km wide and with a surface of 264 sq km, Ngorongoro is one of the largest unbroken calderas in the world that isn’t a lake. Its steep walls soar 400m…

Isimila Stone Age Site

Here, in the late 1950s, amid a dramatic landscape of eroded sandstone pillars, archaeologists unearthed one of the most significant Stone Age finds ever…

Selous-Niassa Wildlife Corridor

The Selous-Niassa Wildlife Corridor ('Ushoroba' in Swahili) joins the Selous Game Reserve with Mozambique’s Niassa Reserve, forming a vast conservation…

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park, and the most accessible from Dar es Salaam. With almost guaranteed year-round wildlife sightings, it…

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s smaller and most underrated parks. While it may lack the size and variety of other northern-circuit…

House of Wonders

Zanzibar Town

An icon of Stone Town, the House of Wonders rises in impressive tiers of slender steel pillars and balconies overlooking the waterfront. Its enormous…

Kitulo National Park

This national park protects the flower-clad Kitulo Plateau, together with sections of the former Livingstone Forest Reserve, which runs south from the…

Kilwa Kisiwani

Today, 'Kilwa on the Island' is a quiet fishing village, but in its heyday it was the centre of a vast trading network linking the old Shona kingdoms and…

Zanzibar Island

ZALA (Zanzibar Land Animals) Park was founded as a project to help local people appreciate the value of wildlife, with funds raised by tourist visits. The…

Forodhani Gardens

One of the best ways to ease into Zanzibar life is to stop by this waterfront public space. It's a social hub for tourists and locals alike; there's a…

Old Dispensary

With its peppermint-green latticework balconies and sculpted clock tower, this 19th-century charitable dispensary is one of the most attractive landmarks…

Songo Mnara

The tiny island of Songo Mnara, about 8km south of Kilwa Kisiwani, contains ruins at its northern end – including of a palace, several mosques and…

Princess Salme Museum

Carefully curated by the renowned historian Said al Gheithy, this delightful little museum tells the story of Princess Salme, a sultan's daughter who…

Mafia Island Marine Park

At around 822 sq km, Mafia Island Marine Park is the largest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean, sheltering a unique complex of estuarine, mangrove…

Livingstone’s Tembe

This deep-maroon-coloured, flat-roofed Arabic-style home, built in 1857, is the main attraction in these parts. It was Livingstone’s residence for part of…

Katuruka Heritage Site

A stop on the Bukoba Tours circuit, this site preserves the oldest-known iron-smelting furnace in east, central and southern Africa (from 500 BC; long…

Arusha National Park

The transition between unappealing urban chaos and pristine mountain hiking trails is rarely so abrupt as it is in Arusha National Park. One of Tanzania’s…

Gol Mountains

Some places are so far off well-travelled routes that there are no tracks other than those left by wildlife and traditional herders. The remote and rarely…

Amani Nature Reserve

Northeastern Tanzania

This reserve is located west of Tanga in the heart of the eastern Usambaras. Often overlooked, it’s a peaceful, lushly vegetated patch of montane forest…

Nafasi Art Space

Dar es Salaam

Aiming to be the leading contemporary art centre in Tanzania, Nafasi is a complex of studios housed in an old industrial warehouse in Mikocheni. Many…

Fenga Rock-Art Complex

Central Tanzania

One of the most impressive of the Kondoa Rock-Art Sites is the excellent Fenga complex, with its dense and lively images. The dominant feature is a…

The imposing German boma, built in 1895 as a fort and administrative centre, has been beautifully renovated as a hotel. Even if you’re not staying here,…

More destinations you need to see

• Tanzania Travel Advice
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• Tanzania weather
• Best Time to Visit Tanzania
• Flying Doctors Services
• Sustainable Travel
• The Hakuna Matata Academy
• About Tanzania Specialist
• Our Experts

20 Best Tourist Attractions In Tanzania – Planning Your Luxury Vacation

23 April 2023

If you are looking for a beautiful African country to visit for a luxury vacation, then look no further than Tanzania. Read further about the best tourist attractions in Tanzania .

Tanzania is packed with natural beauty and the opportunity to experience wildlife in a way that you can nowhere else in the world.

Tanzania really is a once in a lifetime holiday destination. So, if you are thinking of visiting, it is likely that you will want to fit in as many tourist attractions as possible during your trip. If so, you are in the right place. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at 20 of the best tourist attractions in Tanzania to help you plan for your luxury vacation. So, if you want to find out more, keep on reading!

1. Serengeti National Park

First up, it goes without saying that you have to travel to the Serengeti during your trip to Tanzania. Just like Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti is one of the biggest tourist attractions of Tanzania, and it is perfect for any animal lover. 

These vast plains are home to millions of wildlife, and animals passing through. It is home to the Big Five, and a very popular location for game drives.

It is also the second-largest national park in Tanzania, and the location of the great wildebeest migration every year . Many people visit Tanzania purely to go on a safari to the Serengeti. 

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

If you want to go to an area where you can see both immense natural beauty, and lots of wildlife, then you should head to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This area is home to thousands of animals, including some of the Big Five. 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area literally combines both nature and wildlife. This is because the biggest geographical draw to this area is the Ngorongoro Crater.

However, this crater is also home to all the thousands of wildlife that we mentioned earlier. It really is a tourist attraction in Tanzania you don’t want to miss!

3. Tarangire National Park

Another great national park to visit for wildlife is Tarangire National Park .

This National Park is perfect for people who aren’t overly interested in seeing the big five, and are instead happy to see more-relaxed animals in their natural habitat.

It is world famous for its baobab trees that are enormous with unique shapes that are magnificent to look at.

Tarangire is the national park to go to if you want to spend a significant amount of your vacation bird-watching.

It is also great if you are interested in migratory wildlife, such as buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and elephants as all these animals live in the National Park.

Tarangire actually has the highest concentration of elephants in the world, so if you want to see elephants, this is the place for you! 

4. Lake Manyara National Park

As you have probably noticed, quite a lot of the tourist attractions in this guide are national parks.

Tanzania isn’t a country that you visit to spend your time indoors, instead it is somewhere that you visit to immerse yourself in nature. One of the best places to do this is Lake Manyara National park . 

This national park is incredibly diverse, with areas of grasslands, swamps, woodlands, and forests. A large amount of the national park is composed of water, so it is the place to go if you love birds.

It is also home to the largest concentration of baboons on the planet, so if you want to see these beautiful creatures, consider a trip to Lake Manyara. 

5. Mount Kilimanjaro

Another huge attraction in Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro . For many people, Mount Kilimanjaro is the main reason why they visit Tanzania.

If you are somebody who loves climbing and hiking, climbing Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge, and it is something that many people spend years training for.

Mount Kilimanjaro definitely isn’t a tourist attraction for the faint-hearted, and it isn’t one that you can do on a whim either.

But with planning and preparation, you should definitely consider fitting this into your Tanzania vacation.

6. Beaches Of Zanzibar

Zanzibar is famous for its crystal clear waters and sparkling white beaches, so we won’t say too much about them.

But what we will say is that you shouldn’t make a trip to Tanzania without fitting in a trip to at least one of these beaches. If you do, you will live to regret it! 

Some of the best beaches in Zanzibar to visit are Paje, Jambiani, Kendwa and Nungwi, so these are excellent areas to explore during your trip. 

7. Stone Town

On the topic of Zanzibar, we have to mention Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is easy to see why. It is totally unique, and very different to all the other attractions in this list. We definitely recommend giving it a visit! 

While you’re there, you might also want to pay Changuu Island (a.k.a. Prison Island) a visit to really immerse yourself in this country’s history. 

8. Julius Nyerere National Park

Julius Nyerere National park was formerly known as Selous Game Reserve and it was the largest game reserve in Africa, and it covers around 5% of Tanzania’s land mass.

It had been a game reserve since the 1920s, and to this day there are still forbidden areas of the reserve where humans cannot go. Of course, it is now a National Park rather than a game reserve.

Julius Nyerere National Park is home to more than 350 recorded species, and it is truly beautiful. It is definitely worth spending a day exploring this area during your vacation. 

9. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park was the largest national park in Tanzania, until Selous Game Reserve became Julius Nyerere National Park.

It is an area of immense natural beauty, and it has outstanding viewing platforms where you can observe wildlife in their natural habitat. 

Ruaha National Park is one of the most difficult National Parks in Tanzania to access, but this only adds to its beauty.

Tourist visits are possible if you go with a guide that knows the way, and this is often a good idea because Ruaha National Park is in a very remote area.

Tanzania really is jam packed with National Parks, and another one that attracts many tourists to Tanzania is Mikumi.

T here are lots of different animals that reside in Mikumi, including zebras, buffalo, elephants and more.

Of all the different National Parks in Tanzania, Mikumi is the best place to go for lions. Specifically, tree-climbing lions as the chances of you seeing tree climbing lions in this National Park are the highest in Tanzania.

So it is definitely worth a visit! 

11. Gombe Stream National Park

If you are interested in chimpanzees, then you will likely be familiar with Gombe Stream National Park.

This national park is most commonly associated with British conservationist Jane Goodall, and the work that she did here with chimpanzees. 

If you want to see chimps in their natural habitat, then this is the national park to go to.

It is a little off the beaten track, but you can immerse yourself in nature in a guided-tour of this area, and hopefully see some chimpanzees on the way. 

12. Mafia Island

Many people consider Mafia Island to be a step back in time. Even when Tanzania was becoming a tourist destination, Mafia Island remained untouched, and this is why it is still so beautiful today. 

If you enjoy diving or snorkeling, you have to go to Mafia Island during your vacation. It is packed with lots of different varieties of fish and coral gardens too.

Perfect for anybody who enjoys spending time exploring the water. Mafia Island also has a whale shark season, so it is a great place to go diving with whale sharks if this is something that you are interested in. 

13. Pemba Island

The Beaches of Zanzibar are some of the most beautiful in the world, but if you want to see blue seas and sandy beaches, Pemba Island is definitely worth a visit!

Not only is Pemba Island filled with beautiful water and beaches, but it is also the home of luscious green vegetation and clove plantations. 

The water around Pemba Island is filled with coral reefs and a whole variety of different marine life.

So, on your journey over to Pemba Island, you will likely get to see all sorts of wildlife that you wouldn’t see if you stuck to mainland Tanzania.

14. Dar es Salaam

A lot of the attractions that we have spoken about in this list have been natural attractions, but Dar es Salaam is a little different.

Dar is the biggest cities in Tanzania, and it is somewhere that you should definitely try to visit during your trip!

Dar itself is packed with different attractions, such as the Open Air Village Museum, and it is a great opportunity to explore a built-up city that is located in a country that is mainly associated with nature.

You should definitely squeeze a visit to Dar into your Tanzania trip.

15. Materuni Waterfalls

We couldn’t make this guide without mentioning Materuni Waterfalls. These waterfalls are actually located in the Kilimanjaro region of the country, so if you are planning on hiking this mountain, you could easily squeeze in a trip to these waterfalls. 

As well as being able to see these beautiful waterfalls, you can also do a coffee tour of the area. So, if you love natural beauty, and you love coffee, this is the attraction for you! 

Similar to Dar which we mentioned earlier, if you are interested in visiting cities during your trip to Tanzania, we would definitely recommend going to Mbeya.

Mbeya is a city in the Southwest of Tanzania and it is located at the base of Mbeya and Poroto Mountain Ranges. 

This city is the perfect place to experience man-made and natural beauty alongside one another, and it is very different to cities that you might visit in other countries.

It is totally unique, thanks to its green lakes, exciting waterfalls, and the garden of God, and well worth visiting if you are in the area. 

17. Udzungwa Mountains National Park

A great National Park to visit if you are interested in encountering a range of different habitats is Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

In this single National Park, you will encounter rainforests, mountain forests, woodlands, grasslands and steppe too. So, it is well worth visiting if you want to immerse yourself in nature.

Especially if you want to encounter a variety of different birds, and monkeys too!

18. Bagamoyo

If you want to explore the history of Tanzania, then we would recommend a visit to Bagamoyo. Bagamoyo is a historic coastal town that was founded in the 1700s, and it is truly beautiful.

If you want to learn more about Tanzania during your trip to the country, we would recommend adding a trip to Bagamoyo to your itinerary. 

You will also be able to find out lots of information about the slave trade that occurred in Bagamoyo during your trip, as this is the location from which slaves were shipped to Zanzibar.

19. Kikuletwa Hot Springs

Another peaceful and tranquil place to visit is Kikuletwa Hotsprings. These hot springs are located along Arusha and Moshi, and they are essentially a jungle oasis. 

The Kikuletwa hot springs are a beautiful turquoise color, so they are perfect for any Instagram posts. They are also perfect for swimming, relaxing, and being at one with nature.

This really is a hidden gem that not many people speak about. 

20. Mwanza And Lake Victoria 

Finally we would recommend a visit to Mwanza and Lake Victoria. Lake Victoria spans across multiple African countries, and it is a very popular destination for tourists.

However, the banks of Lake Victoria in Tanzania are some of the most sparsely visited, so why not take advantage of this? 

It is the same lake that you will see in Kenya and Uganda, it is simply less busy, so why not enjoy the peace and explore Mwanza while you’re there during your trip?

Summary 

In short, in this guide, we have taken a look at 20 of the best tourist attractions in Tanzania. So if you are planning a luxury vacation, you should consider fitting these into your trip. 

Thank you for reading!

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15 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in Tanzania

• Modified on Apr 19, 2024

Tanzania, located in East Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Tanzania, one of the most popular destinations on the continent, has a lot to offer tourists looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. 

Geographically, Tanzania boasts a stunning array of landscapes, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. At its heart lies the Serengeti, one of the most renowned wildlife reserves in the world, where the annual migration of wildebeests and zebras mesmerizes travelers from across the globe. Moreover, Tanzania is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, often dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and the vast Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country's geographical diversity not only supports a rich variety of flora and fauna but also offers unparalleled opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure.

With a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes ranging from savannahs to mountains and coastal regions, Tanzania's attractions cater to every traveler's taste. Whether seeking adventure on safari, relaxation on the beach, or cultural immersion in historical sites like Stone Town, Tanzania promises an unforgettable journey filled with awe-inspiring experiences.

Let’s delve into the enchanting land of Tanzania, where nature weaves its most captivating tapestry.

Table of Content

Top rated tourist attractions in tanzania, mount kilimanjaro.

Towering majestically over the East African landscape, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak and one of the most iconic natural wonders on the continent. The mountain offers several trekking routes, (Marangu, Lemosho, and Machame, being the popular ones) each providing unique perspectives of its diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine meadows and arctic-like glaciers. The climb is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey, as trekkers witness awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets from high above the clouds.

As one of the world's Seven Summits, Mount Kilimanjaro is immensely popular among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Its popularity stems from its iconic status as the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, offering a challenging yet achievable climb for trekkers of varying skill levels. The popularity of Mount Kilimanjaro is further enhanced by its stunning natural beauty, with diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to barren alpine landscapes. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak, and witnessing breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and glaciers is a major draw for climbers worldwide. Additionally, Kilimanjaro holds cultural significance as a symbol of Tanzania's natural heritage, attracting travelers keen to explore its rich history and indigenous traditions.

• Altitude: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level
• Area: 947,303 square kilometers 
• Popularity: Extremely popular among trekkers for Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Best Season: January to March and June to October (Dry Seasons)
• Flora: Diverse ecosystems include montane rainforests with plant species like Giant Lobelias and Senecios.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and various species of monkeys and birds at lower altitudes.

Serengeti National Park

Renowned as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth, the Serengeti National Park is synonymous with the annual Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, followed closely by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Visitors also enjoy thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural interactions with Maasai communities in the surrounding area.

Serengeti National Park is one of the Most Popular Places in Tanzania for its unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, with the chance to witness thrilling predator-prey interactions and the Big Five in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, the Serengeti's diverse landscapes, including grasslands, woodlands, and riverine forests, provide year-round sightings of a wide variety of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. To explore the Serengeti National Park with Footprint Adventure, visit here.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly flat plains with some hills
• Area: Approximately 30,000 square kilometers (12,000 square miles)
• Popularity: Highly popular for wildlife safaris, especially during the Great Migration
• Best Season: December to March (calving season) and June to October (dry season)
• Flora: Open grasslands with acacia trees, riverine forests, and rocky kopjes supporting various plant species.
• Fauna: Iconic species such as lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, as well as the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras.

Tarangire National Park

Often referred to as the "Elephant Playground," Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large population of elephants, especially during the dry season when they gather around the Tarangire River. The park's landscape is characterized by vast savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and ancient baobab trees, providing a scenic backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography. 

The unique combination of baobab-studded savannahs, seasonal swamps, and ancient riverbeds of Tarange provides a haven for a wide variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Visitors travel to Tarangire to witness large herds of elephants around the Tarangire River, as well as sightings of predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Walking safaris and night drives offer unique opportunities to explore the park and observe its nocturnal inhabitants. The relatively quiet atmosphere and pristine wilderness of Tarangire add to its allure, offering an authentic wildlife safari experience away from the crowds.

• Altitude: Approximately 900 meters (2,950 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its large elephant population and baobab trees
• Best Season: June to October (dry season)
• Flora: Acacia woodlands, baobab trees, and seasonal swamps support a diverse range of plant species adapted to dry conditions.
• Fauna: Known for its large elephant herds, as well as lions, leopards, giraffes, and various antelope species.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most famous safari destinations, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. Formed from the collapse of a massive volcano millions of years ago, the crater is now a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. 

Travelers are mostly drawn to the opportunity to embark on game drives along the crater floor, where they can witness an incredible concentration of animals against the backdrop of the crater walls. Beyond the crater, the conservation area's diverse habitats, including highland forests, grasslands, and soda lakes, offer additional opportunities for exploration and cultural experiences with Maasai communities.

• Altitude:1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 8,300 square kilometers (3,200 square miles)
• Popularity: Very popular for its unique landscape and high wildlife density
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and offers better visibility
• Flora: Varied habitats include grasslands, forests, and alkaline lakes surrounded by lush vegetation, including fig trees and ferns.
• Fauna: Diverse wildlife such as lions, elephants, rhinos, and large herds of wildebeests and zebras within the Ngorongoro Crater.

Lake Manyara

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park's most iconic feature is its alkaline lake, which attracts large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. 

Despite its relatively small area, Lake Manyara National Park is one of the Top Rated Tanzania Sights, among safari enthusiasts for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique tree-climbing lions. Travelers are drawn to the opportunity to explore the park's varied landscapes, from dense forests inhabited by troops of baboons to open grasslands frequented by elephants and giraffes. Game drives, guided walks, and bird-watching wildlife safaris offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the park's natural splendor.

The chance to spot lions lounging in the branches of acacia trees is a major highlight for many visitors, adding to the park's appeal as a premier safari destination.

• Altitude: Approximately 960 meters (3,150 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 330 square kilometers (130 square miles)
• Popularity: Known for its birdwatching and tree-climbing lions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and offers better wildlife viewing
• Flora: Surrounding woodlands and grasslands are home to diverse plant species, including mahogany trees, sausage trees, and acacias.
• Fauna: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos.

Pemba Island

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Pemba Island is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Despite being less developed than its neighbor Zanzibar, Pemba Island is highly popular among travelers seeking a secluded and unspoiled tropical paradise. The popularity is attributed to its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, which offer some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in this region. Travelers are drawn to Pemba's laid-back atmosphere and authentic Swahili culture, with opportunities to explore traditional fishing villages, spice plantations, and historic ruins. The island's remote location and limited tourist infrastructure add to its appeal as a hidden gem, providing an escape from the crowds and making it a great Tanzania Tourist attraction to reconnect with nature.

• Altitude: 119 m (390 feet) above sea level
• Area: Approximately 980 square kilometers (380 square miles)
• Popularity: Less crowded compared to Zanzibar, popular for diving and snorkeling
• Best Season: July to October and December to February (dry seasons)
• Flora: Dense forests, mangroves, and spice plantations with cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon are characteristic of the island's vegetation.
• Fauna: Marine life includes coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, dolphins, turtles, and occasional sightings of whale sharks.

Steeped in history and culture, Stone Town is the atmospheric heart of Zanzibar Island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with centuries-old buildings adorned with intricately carved doors, reflecting the island's diverse architectural influences. Visitors can wander through bustling markets, visit historic landmarks such as the Old Fort and Sultan's Palace, and explore cultural attractions like the House of Wonders and the Palace Museum. The town's vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its lively waterfront, where traditional shows set sail against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean sunset. With its blend of Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences, Stone Town offers a captivating glimpse into Zanzibar's rich cultural tapestry.

• Altitude: 0-9 m above sea level
• Popularity: Very popular for its historical significance and cultural attractions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to October is drier and more comfortable for exploring
• Flora: Narrow streets lined with historic buildings feature lush gardens and courtyards with bougainvillea, jasmine, and frangipani flowers.
• Fauna: Urban wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and bats can be spotted amidst the city's bustling streets and markets.

Arusha National Park

Situated at the foothills of Mount Meru, Arusha National Park is a hidden gem known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park encompasses a variety of habitats, from lush rainforests and alpine meadows to crater lakes and savannah plains, providing a haven for a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and canoeing excursions, encountering iconic species such as giraffes, zebras, and flamingos. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the challenging trails to the summit of Mount Meru, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Cultural experiences with local tribes such as the Meru and Maasai add another dimension to the park's appeal, allowing adventurers to gain insights into traditional lifestyles and customs.

• Altitude: Ranges from about 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) to 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) at the summit of Mount Meru
• Area: Approximately 552 square kilometers (212 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its diverse landscapes and Mount Meru Trekking
• Flora: Diverse habitats encompass montane forests, grasslands, and the volcanic slopes of Mount Meru, with abundant plant species including giant heather and orchids.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes colobus monkeys, buffaloes, giraffes, and various antelope species, as well as a variety of birdlife.

Mahale National Park

Nestled on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale National Park is a remote wilderness paradise known for its population of wild chimpanzees. Trekking through dense forests to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat is the park's main attraction, offering unforgettable encounters with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Beyond chimpanzee tracking, Mahale is also home to a diverse array of other wildlife, including forest elephants, leopards, and various species of monkeys and birds. The park's pristine beaches and clear waters provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, making it a perfect destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking a secluded retreat.

• Altitude: Varies; from the shores of Lake Tanganyika (773 m) to the mountainous terrain of Mount Nkungwe (2,462 meters)
• Area: Approximately 1,613 square kilometers (623 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for chimpanzee trekking and remote wilderness experiences
• Best Season: June to October and December to February (dry seasons)
• Flora: Dense tropical forests dominated by mahogany, ebony, and fig trees, interspersed with lush vegetation and colorful orchids.
• Fauna: Home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Africa, as well as other primates, forest elephants, and diverse bird species.

Mikumi National Parkut 

Often referred to as the "Serengeti of the South," Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania's hidden gems, offering abundant wildlife sightings without the crowds. The park's open grasslands are home to a variety of herbivores, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Birdwatchers will also delight in the park's diverse avian population, with over 400 species recorded within its boundaries. Game drives are the primary activity in Mikumi, allowing adventurers to explore its vast expanses and encounter its resident wildlife up close. With its convenient location along the main highway connecting Dar es Salaam to Zambia, Mikumi is easily accessible and makes for an ideal stopover on a Tanzanian safari itinerary.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly lowland plains to a maximum elevation of 1,290 m above sea level
• Area: Approximately 3,230 square kilometers (1,250 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for wildlife viewing and accessibility from Dar es Salaam
• Flora: Savannah grasslands with baobab trees, acacias, and other drought-resistant plants adapted to the park's dry climate.
• Fauna: Wildlife includes lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species, as well as over 400 bird species.

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha is a vast wilderness area teeming with wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Situated in the heart of the country, it offers a remote and off-the-beaten-path safari experience far from the crowds of more popular destinations in Tanzania. The park's rugged terrain is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The Great Ruaha River, which meanders through the park, serves as a lifeline for its inhabitants, attracting large concentrations of animals during the dry season. Travelers can explore the park on game drives, walking safaris, and boat trips, enjoying unparalleled opportunities to observe its resident wildlife in its natural habitat.

• Altitude: Varies; from about 600 meters (1,970 feet) to 1,900 meters (6,230 feet)
• Area: Approximately 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for its rugged landscapes and large wildlife populations
• Flora: Varied landscapes include riverine forests, miombo woodlands, and rocky escarpments, supporting diverse plant species such as baobabs and sausage trees.
• Fauna: Large concentrations of elephants, as well as lions, leopards, wild dogs, and rare species such as sable antelopes and greater kudus.

Beaches of Zanzibar

With its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, the beaches of Zanzibar are the epitome of tropical paradise. From the bustling shores of Nungwi and Kendwa to the secluded coves of Matemwe and Paje, the island offers a beach experience to suit every traveler's preferences. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and dhow cruises, exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that thrive offshore. For those seeking relaxation, there are plenty of beachfront resorts and boutique hotels where you can unwind in luxury and soak up the island's laid-back vibe. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, beach bonfires and traditional Swahili performances add to the magic of Zanzibar's coastal evenings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• Altitude: Near sea level
• Area: Varies by beach; the main island of Zanzibar is approximately 1,554 square kilometers (600 square miles)
• Popularity: Extremely popular for beach vacations and water sports
• Flora: Coastal vegetation includes palm trees, coconut groves, and mangroves, with vibrant tropical flowers and shrubs adorning the sandy shores.
• Fauna: Marine life includes coral reefs with colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional sightings of dolphins and whale sharks.

Selous Game Reserve

Covering an area larger than Switzerland, the Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after British explorer and hunter Frederick Selous, the reserve is renowned for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. Travelers can embark on boat safaris along the Rufiji River, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, or explore the reserve's vast plains and woodlands on guided game drives making it unique things to do in Tanzania. With its low visitor numbers and exclusive safari lodges, Selous offers a truly remote and intimate safari experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the African bush away from the crowds.

• Altitude: Varies; mostly lowland plains
• Area: Approximately 50,000 square kilometers (19,300 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for boat safaris and remote wilderness experiences
• Flora: Varied habitats encompass savannah grasslands, miombo woodlands, and riverine forests, with diverse plant species supporting abundant wildlife.
• Fauna: One of the largest populations of African wild dogs, as well as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species.

Mafia Island

Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Mafia Island is a hidden gem known for its unspoiled beauty and rich marine biodiversity. Protected as part of the Mafia Island Marine Park, it offers pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in East Africa. Visitors can explore vibrant underwater seascapes teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and rays, as well as larger marine species such as whale sharks and dolphins. Above the surface, the island's mangrove forests, secluded beaches, and traditional fishing villages provide opportunities for eco-friendly excursions and cultural encounters. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Mafia Island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where you can reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.

• Area: Approximately 413 square kilometers (160 square miles)
• Popularity: Popular for diving, snorkeling, and secluded beach getaways
• Flora: Mangrove forests, coastal shrubs, and tropical fruit trees such as mangoes and papayas characterize the island's vegetation.
• Fauna: Rich marine biodiversity includes coral reefs, reef fish, octopuses, and colorful nudibranchs, as well as occasional sightings of whale sharks and humpback whales.

Materuni Waterfalls

Hidden in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Materuni Waterfalls is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The waterfall cascades over 80 meters down a sheer rock face, creating a mesmerizing display of cascading water and mist. Visitors can hike through lush coffee plantations and banana groves to reach the falls, pass through picturesque villages, and learn about traditional Chagga culture. Swimming in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls is a popular activity, offering a welcome respite from the tropical heat. Guided tours allow travelers to explore the area with knowledgeable local guides who can share insights into the region's history, flora, and fauna. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, Materuni Waterfalls offers a memorable experience that showcases the best of Tanzania's natural and cultural heritage.

• Altitude: Approximately 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) above sea level
• Popularity: Popular for day trips and hiking excursions
• Best Season: Year-round, but June to September is drier and more comfortable for hiking
• Flora: Lush montane forests with coffee and banana plantations, ferns, mosses, and other vegetation adapted to the misty environment.
• Fauna: Various bird species, butterflies, and small mammals inhabit the area surrounding the waterfall, adding to its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Tanzania is home to an array of natural wonders that attract tourists worldwide. From the snowy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast plains of the Serengeti, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. The national parks offer opportunities for wildlife watching, while the islands provide tranquil settings for relaxing and exploring underwater worlds. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery, Tanzania truly has it all. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to experience nature at its finest, Tanzania should be on your list of must-visit destinations. For any queries relating to Tanzania, Kilimanjaro Climbing, or Wildlife Safaris, contact us, here . 

Ashmita Thapa

Ashmita is a content writer at Footprint Adventure with a really positive outlook on life. She is dedicated to exploration, and enjoys going on hikes and treks. She is delighted to travel  and explore the beauty of Nepal with Footprint Adventure. She genuinely believes in promoting her native country in whatever manner she can, with the goal of making the biggest possible contribution to the travel and tourism sector.

Ashmita adds that she is extremely appreciative of Footprint Adventure for offering her the opportunity to learn more about travel and tourism. She would also like to grow here with more dedication and effort for the company. She also values the chance to meet new people, explore various regions and cultures, and broaden her knowledge about travel and tourism in Nepal.

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10 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in Tanzania

Stephen is a travel writer and avid conservationist whose work appears in prestigious magazines such as Africa Geographic and Travel Africa.

From the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro to the palm-fringed Indian Ocean coast, Tanzania is a land of unrivaled variety. Big-name attractions include the thunderous wildebeest migration through Serengeti National Park, the Eden-like Ngorongoro Crater and the sultry Spice Island of Zanzibar. More low-key but equally stellar things to do include boat trips on the hippo-crammed Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park, tracking chimps in the western forests and diving the reefs off Mafia Island. It is difficult to pick just 10 must-see attractions in this diverse and captivating country, but below we focus on Tanzania’s very best travel highlights.

4,730 Tanzania Safaris

1. Serengeti National Park – Rated As Africa’s Best Safari Park

First and foremost is Serengeti National Park , one of the most popular protected areas in all of Africa. Encompassing 14,763km 2 /5,700mi 2 and making up 50% of the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, this is an iconic wildlife area. Sensational scenery dominated by expansive savannah grasslands and peppered with distinctive flattop acacias and Balanites trees make this one of the most picturesque landscapes in Africa. Throw in more than 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra and 300,000 gazelles during the great migration and you have a wildlife spectacle second to none. The Serengeti and its surrounding protected area offer a wide variety of safari accommodations and experiences to suit most budgets.

2,833 Serengeti Safaris

2. Ngorongoro Crater – Dramatic Scenery and Tons of Wildlife

Adjoining the southeast of Serengeti National Park is the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area . The unique Ngorongoro Crater is surrounded by towering volcanic walls on every side and blessed with prolific and extremely well-habituated wildlife. Most visitors just see the crater, but the more adventurous leave the safari hordes behind to explore the wider conservation area, which is a mixed-use zone for wildlife and Maasai pastoralists. Within this protected area, the vast Olduvai (Oldupai) Gorge is a palaeontological site made famous by the Leakey family for being home to some of the continent’s most important hominid fossils.

3,337 Ngorongoro Safaris

3. Climbing Kilimanjaro – Africa’s Highest Peak

The origin of Kilimanjaro’s name is a mystery. ‘Kilima’ means mountain in Swahili, but ‘njaro’ might derive from either the Maasai ‘ngare’ (water), an old Swahili word meaning ‘white’, or the local Chagga name for the slave caravans that once passed through the area. What is not open to dispute is that Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak (5,895m/19,340ft) and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth.

It is undoubtedly one of the continent’s most magnificent sights, rising up in splendid isolation from the plains below. Located virtually on the equator, this dormant volcano seems so out of place with its snowcapped peak dwarfing the surrounding lowlands. It would be wrong to come to Tanzania and not spend some time appreciating this grand mountain that forms the roof of Africa. You can climb its legendary slopes in the hope of standing atop Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the African continent, or simply gaze and photograph its majesty, as it presides over the plains and parks below.

Kilimanjaro Tours

4. Nyerere (Selous) National Park – Africa’s Largest Wildlife Reserve

Bisected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 30,893km 2 /11,928mi 2 Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is an iconic East African safari destination. Despite ongoing poaching in some more remote parts of the park, it remains a long-standing tourist attraction in southern Tanzania. Although illegal hunting ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, Nyerere still supports around 16,000 of these grey giants, as well as a thriving population of wild dogs.

Tanzania’s government has forged ahead with the development of a huge hydroelectric dam inside Stiegler’s Gorge in the heart of this Unesco World Heritage Site. It remains to be seen whether this will have a significant impact on the park’s ecology and wildlife.

Nyerere Tours

5. Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Famous Wilderness Area

One of the largest national parks in East Africa, the 20,220km 2 /7,807mi 2 Ruaha National Park is almost unknown outside of Tanzania. Yet, with an estimated 10% of the surviving wild lion population in Africa, it definitely deserves to be a highlight on any trip to explore the wild south of the country. Beautiful landscapes peppered with giant baobabs, elephants and abundant plains wildlife are further good reasons to make sure Ruaha is on the itinerary of every intrepid safari enthusiast. It’s also one of the only places in Tanzania where you are likely to see the majestic greater kudu.

Ruaha Tours

6. Katavi National Park – Relatively Untouched Wildlife Paradise

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is one of the country’s most unspoiled and untouched bush settings with amazing landscapes and rich wildlife. The 4,471km 2 /1,726mi 2 park is difficult to access and so can be relatively costly to visit. As a result, few people make the effort to come here. While the popular Serengeti attracts around half a million visitors annually, remote Katavi typically sees fewer than 5,000 brave adventurers in any given year.

This is wild Africa at its very best, and if you have the time and budget it’s a park that’s absolutely worth exploring. There are only a few small, rustic safari camps, so you often come across more prides of lion than tourists on game drives in Katavi, one of Tanzania's largest national parks.

Katavi Tours

7. Mahale Mountains – Spectacular Scenery and Habituated Chimps

Nestled on Lake Tanganyika with its forested mountains rising up from the shoreline, mesmerizing Mahale Mountains National Park boasts stunning scenery and offers close encounters with habituated chimpanzees. The mist-covered peak of Mt Nkungwe stands sentinel in the background and the crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika lap against white-sand beaches. There is no road access, so many safari stalwarts regard 1,613km 2 /623mi 2 Mahale as Tanzania’s most remote park, but also one of its most enthralling.

The holy grail for most visitors is the 75-strong Mimikere or ‘M’ group of chimpanzees, which has been studied by Japanese researchers since the 1960s. While the M group is well habituated, finding our closest relatives can be a challenge. Be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbs through dense vegetation, but the final reward is well worth the trials and tribulations of getting there.

Mahale Mountains Tours

8. Zanzibar – An Indian Ocean Island Rich in Culture and History

Zanzibar – a beautiful tropical island dotted with aromatic spice plantations and bustling fishing villages – has reinvented itself as a tourism hot spot. It oozes culture and history in Stone Town that is seemingly at odds with its idyllic geography of white-sand beaches and coconut palms swaying lazily in the sea breeze. But it is precisely this diversity that makes Zanzibar such an attractive and varied island to explore above and below the water, as well as a dream destination for simply relaxing and recharging.

For those with deep pockets, nothing beats the exclusive satellite island of Mnemba off the northeastern tip of Zanzibar. With one exclusive &Beyond lodge, Mnemba is the very pinnacle of tropical island beach-chic luxury. For those on a tighter budget, there is a dizzying choice of hundreds of hotels, beach resorts, guesthouses and other accommodations on the main island. It almost goes without saying, but Zanzibar is not a place you should visit if you don’t want to see other tourists.

Zanzibar Tours

9. Pemba – The ‘Green Island’ of East Africa

If Zanzibar’s hundreds of hotels and thousands of tourists is not your cup of tea, then a trip to neighboring Pemba is the way to go. Zanzibar’s big brother island has remained a thriving fishing community and is surprisingly free of tourism development.

There are only a handful of tourist hotels to choose from, a number of which are in the far north of the island. The underwater honeymoon suite of the Manta Resort might be the most unique place you could opt to spend a night! But the unpretentious Emerald Bay Resort in the south is the traveler’s pick. Delicious seafood meals served on an open-air rooftop terrace and daily boat cruises to picture-perfect sandbanks in the middle of the ocean make for an unbeatable combo. It’s very easy to lose track of time and spend a week or two relaxing at this affordable island paradise.

10. Mafia Island – A Beach Paradise With Superb Diving

Farther south lies the idyllic coconut-covered island of Mafia. Lodges here tend to be a touch more exclusive than their counterparts on Zanzibar, but without the Mnemba price tag. The beaches are superb and its mangroves and marine park ensure that the marine life is bountiful and the underwater safari experience far superior to Zanzibar or Pemba. More out of the way and a little harder to reach, Mafia is the place for adventurous travelers and diving connoisseurs. The star underwater attraction is the docile and completely harmless whale sharks that frequent the island waters between October and March each year.

Mafia Island Tours

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Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

Full Package Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  61 Reviews

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Safari Soles   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

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You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Kilimanjaro Airport (End)

Kale Voyage Expedition   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  14 Reviews

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the most diverse and captivating African travel safari destinations. Boasting a vast and unique array of national parks and game reserves, ranging from the world-renowned Serengeti National Park to the wild and secluded hidden wilderness gem of Katavi National Park, Tanzania has a safari and wildlife destination to suite every type of traveler and wilderness enthusiast.

Offering an endless variety of places to explore, wildlife and birdlife to see, and safari adventures to experience, here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Tanzania, all of which should be on your African travel and safari bucket-list.

#1 The Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s flagship conservation area, the Serengeti National Park is one of the finest national parks and top tourist attractions in Tanzania. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Serengeti is regarded as one of the most celebrated wilderness areas in the world.

Stretching along a vast plateau between the eastern arm of the rugged Rift Valley and the huge expanse of Lake Victoria, the Serengeti National Park covers an immense 14 800 km² (5 700 square miles) on Tanzania’s northern border with Kenya. Making up 50% of the wider Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, the Serengeti is the most famous protected wilderness area in all of Africa. As Tanzania’s oldest game reserve, the Serengeti National Park boasts one of the oldest and most diverse ecosystems on earth with a thriving vegetation that has remained largely untouched for millions of years.

Beyond its diverse landscapes, vast grasslands, golden savannah, thriving ecosystems, and wild and unspoiled natural beauty, it boasts one of the world’s greatest concentrations of wildlife, and certainly one of the most diverse. In fact, one of the best things about the Serengeti is its superb year-round game viewing.

Just about every large animal in East Africa can be regularly seen in the Serengeti National Park or its wider ecosystem. Known for its remarkable African Big 5 and predator sightings (especially lions, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs), as well as plenty of elephants favoring the western woodlands of Grumeti, the Serengeti dazzles even the most hardened safari critics. The Serengeti ecosystem is also a renowned bird-watching destination, with over 500 species recorded to date.

Serengeti National Park Great Migration

The world-renowned Serengeti National Park Great Migration is a wildlife phenomenon and spectacle that will exceed all expectations. The Serengeti Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle traversing the open plains of the park in search of fresh grass from seasonal rains, moving northwards into the neighboring Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and then returning south to the Serengeti again. It is estimated that 1.5 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebra and 400,000 gazelles take part on the annual Serengeti Great Migration.

The dramatic scenes of huge herds on the move, crossing rivers and vast plains, pursued by predators looking for their next kill, are the stuff nature documentaries are made of. Experiencing the annual Serengeti National Park Great Migration is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime event that most safari travelers and wildlife enthusiasts have at the top of their bucket list.

#2 Ngorongoro Crater

The iconic Ngorongoro Crater is regarded by many as Africa’s lost world filled with dramatic and jaw-dropping scenery and blessed with tons of prolific and extremely well-habituated wildlife. The iconic Ngorongoro Crater located in Northern Tanzania, which was once a gigantic volcano, is the largest intact caldera in the world, surrounded by towering volcanic walls on every side. Some would go as far as to say that before it erupted, it would have been higher than the famous Mt Kilimanjaro – the highest peak in Africa. This undoubtedly makes the Ngorongoro Crater one of the most sought-after destinations to visit and top tourist attraction in Tanzania, if not Africa.

Today, long since having collapsed and eroded, it is an extensive highland area with the famous 600m deep Ngorongoro Crater as its focal point. However, despite being nearly three million years old, the ancient caldera shelters are still regarded as one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth.

Black Rhinos

The steep sides of the crater have become a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wildlife.  In fact, it is presently one of the most likely areas in Africa to see the endangered Black Rhino.

Ngorongoro Crater Olduvai Gorge

Adjoining the southeast of the renowned Serengeti National Park, you’ll find the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area. While most visitors just visit the area to see the crater in all its gory, the more curious and adventurous leave the safari hordes behind to explore the wider conservation area that is a mixed-use area for wildlife and Maasai pastoralists. Within this protected area, the vast Oldupai Gorge (originally misnamed Olduvai) is an archaeological site made famous by the Leakey family for being home to some of the continent’s most important hominid fossils.

Provided you visit outside of the peak safari season months (June–September), you will fall in love with Ngorongoro Crater packed full of a wild, vast, and diverse array of wildlife and mesmerizing scenery.

#3 Selous Game Reserve

Intersected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to the world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 50,000km2/19,305mi2 Selous Game Reserve is an iconic East African safari destination and one of the top tourist attractions in Tanzania. Thanks to the efforts and stringent regulations implemented by the Wildlife Division of the Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, the Selous Game Reserve boasts the greatest concentration of savanna animals than any other African game reserve.

Despite its ongoing poaching and the fact that illegal hunting ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, the Selous Game Reserve continues to support approximately 16,000 magnificent elephants by means of several incredible wildlife, conservation, and anti-poaching initiatives. Selous is also home to a thriving population of endangered African wild dogs – A rare and remarkable sighting when visiting any African game reserve or national park.

The infamous Rufiji River is an important feature of the reserve as it supports and gives life to a broad range of both water-based and non-water-based wildlife. A vast diversity of wildlife can be spotted in and around the Rufiji River, including hippos, rhino, buffalo, antelope, giraffe, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, wildebeest, warthog and so much more. Selous Game Reserve also boasts a glorious array of birdlife with over 350 recorded species, making it any avid birder’s paradise.

#4 Mount Kilimanjaro

Dubbed the highest peak on the African continent at 5895 metres (19,340 feet) above sea level, visiting and climbing the tallest freestanding mountain on earth, Mount Kilimanjaro, is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Tanzania. An inactive volcano, this majestic mountain can be found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park in north-eastern Tanzania, positioned virtually on the equator. Unlike other national parks in northern Tanzania, wildlife is not the main attraction for those visiting Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, but rather to witness and stand in awe of this tall-standing natural wonder and, for many, to climb to the summit.

Famous for its snow-capped peak looming over the stunning plains of the savannah, Mount Kilimanjaro has established itself as one of Africa’s top tourist attractions among keen travelers, nature enthusiasts, avid mountaineers, and trekkers from around the world – and with good reason too!

Standing vigil over Tanzania’s untamed landscapes, Mount Kilimanjaro, which is also a World Heritage Site, boasts an array of beautiful and diverse habitats and ecosystems. On the lowland slopes, much of the mountain has been converted to farmland. Once inside the park, thick, lush lowland forest and rainforests covers the lower slopes giving way to alpine meadows once the air begins to thin. Near the peak, the landscape becomes harsh and barren with lunar landscapes, rocks, and sparkling vistas of ice and snow which are the predominant features as you approach the snowy summit of Africa atop Uhuru Peak on Kibo – The highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro (as well as the highest point on the African continent), which is also regarded as one of the Seven Summits of the world.

The slopes of rainforest are home to several buffaloes, leopards, monkeys, elephants, and eland. The alpine meadow region on the other hand is where avid bird watchers will find an incredible array of birds of prey.

If that isn’t enough, few mountains can claim the grandeur and the scintillating views over the Great Rift Valley and Amboseli National Park in neighbouring Kenya that belongs to Mount Kilimanjaro.

For many eager travellers, thrill seekers, and mountaineers, hiking to the ‘roof of Africa’ – the highest point on the African continent – is the adventure of a lifetime and the highlight of their Tanzanian experience, especially because the routes to the summit are not as technical as many may think and are thus accessible to almost any reasonably fit and healthy. Everyone from seasoned trekkers to first-time hiking enthusiasts can successfully tackle and scale the snowy summit provided they climb slowly, acclimatize properly, are adequately equipped for the wind and biting cold, and have a certain level of fitness, as the main challenge is posed by the altitude.

#5 Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is located in the Arusha Region and Manyara Region of Tanzania. Offering a thrilling wilderness experience and diverse habitats, from its Rift Valley soda lake, forests, and vast grasslands to swamps, dense woodlands and steep mountainsides, Lake Manyara National Park is both a sought-after safari destination and top tourist attraction in Tanzania.

Apart from its spectacular and diverse setting and surroundings, Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions, huge elephant herds, and large population of hippos, all of which can be admired at a much closer range than in other parks.

As two-thirds of the park is covered by water, it is renowned for attracting a vibrant and abundant bird life, as well as a copious number of flamingos. During Tanzania’s wet season, Lake Manyara is home to more than 400 species of birds, many of them waterfowl or migrants, as well as thousands of flamingos – Providing visitors and birding enthusiasts with truly sensational sightings.

During the dry season, alkaline mud-flats take the place of the glorious lake waters. The dry season is the best time to see large mammals such as huge herds of buffalo, hippos, cheetah, Masai giraffe, wildebeest, and impala, to mention merely a few, roam the lake shores and the forested valley slopes – Resulting in remarkable wildlife sightings!

If you’re eager to go on a Lake Manyara safari, you can look forward to a unique and fascinating experience as the park also features a ground-water forest, acacia tortilis woodland and hot springs called Maji Moto.

As Lake Manyara National Park is said to host the largest concentration of baboons in the world, you can expect to see troops of several hundred olive baboons alongside Sykes monkey and short-eared galago. Cape clawless otters, Egyptian mongoose, hippos, and the iconic African klipspringer are other prominent park residents you’ll have the opportunity to spot on your Lake Manyara safari adventure.

#6 Katavi National Park

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is an unspoiled and untouched wildlife and wilderness paradise situated in the western area of Tanzania. The 4,471km2/1,726mi2 national park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife along with a wonderful array of habitats, ranging from flood plains of thick reeds and dense waterways that teem with hippo and crocodile to woodlands, open grasslands, forests, and pristine seasonal lakes. This makes exploring the untamed and majestic Katavi National Park a bucket-list worthy and thrilling wilderness experience.

Katavi’s enormous flood plain, split by the Katuma River and several seasonal lakes, is one of its most prevalent features. The park’s array of seasonal lakes is home to a glorious abundance of crocodiles, hippos, and over 400 bird species. One of Katavi National Park’s greatest wildlife spectacles is witnessing over 200 hippos squeeze into a single pool of water at the end of the region’s dry season. Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Katavi during this time will have the amazing opportunity to see a whole lot of action as the rivalry between the male hippos heats up, causing intense territorial fights.

Katavi National Park’s dry season brings the whole park to life as its renowned for its remarkable and abundant wildlife sightings and encounters. Visitors can look forward to seeing large herds of impala, reedbuck, lions, zebras, giraffes, and so much more at the remaining pools and streams. As Katavi is said to be home to the largest herds of buffalo on the planet as well as a huge population of elephants, thousands of buffaloes and elephants can be spotted converging when the flood waters in the park retreat.

Due to Katavi National Park’s remote location, it is regarded as one of Tanzania’s most magnificent hidden wilderness gems. It is also more difficult to access compared to some of Tanzania’s other popular game reserves and national parks. Where the famous Serengeti National Park might see approximately 125,000 (or likely more) visitors in a year, the wild and secluded Katavi sees no more than a few hundred brave adventurers, avid wildlife and birdlife enthusiasts, and thrill-seeking wilderness travelers by comparison.

Katavi National Park truly is the epitome of wild Africa at its finest – and if you have the opportunity to visit and explore this pristine Tanzanian National Park, it will undoubtedly exceed all your expectations.

#7 Ruaha National Park

Photo credit: flickr

Located in the heart of Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is one of the largest national parks in East Africa and one of Tanzania’s most notorious wilderness areas. The Great Ruaha River is one of the main features of Ruaha National Park. Attracting an abundance of wildlife, it provides visitors with ample magnificent up-close wildlife viewing opportunities on the riverbanks. In addition to the Great Ruaha River, the park boasts vast wild landscapes filled with rocky escarpments, baobab studded hills, and spectacular gorges.

Boasting a vast diversity of remarkable wildlife, it isn’t hard to understand why Ruaha National Park is at the top of almost every wildlife enthusiast’s list when visiting Tanzania. Besides hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is home to large herds of buffalo, gazelle, wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebras, impala, bat eared foxes, and jackals, to mention merely a few. Ruaha is also where you will find an estimated 10% of the surviving wild lion population in Africa (which is undoubtedly one of Ruaha National Park’s top wildlife highlights), it also one of the only places you will see greater kudu in Tanzania.

Avid birdwatchers can look forward to sensational bird sightings as Ruaha National Park is home to over 400 species of bird that are not found in northern Tanzania.

Due to the park’s relatively remote location, visitors can look forward to incredible and exciting wildlife and birdlife sightings without the large crowds of people and tons of cars and game vehicles around.

#8 Mahale Mountains National Park

Nestled on the Lake Tanganyikan shoreline (in western Tanzania) and set among the spectacular, forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, the Mahale Mountains National Park is one of the most sought-after national parks and tourist attractions in Tanzania. It is also regarded as one of Tanzania’s most beautiful national parks, boasting lush green forested mountains cascading down to the lakeshore, crystal-clear waters lapping against white sand coves, and the magnificent mist-covered peak of Mount Nkungwe which can be seen in the background.

The iconic Mahale Mountains National Park was originally created to protect the thousands of chimpanzees that inhabit the region. This has made it one of the best national parks and places in the world to witness and enjoy up-close sightings and encounters with chimpanzees.

Beyond its stunning landscapes, surrounding scenery, and vast chimpanzee population, Mahale Mountains National Park boasts a breathtaking array of habitats, which include rainforest, grasslands, alpine bamboo, and woodlands. These diverse Mahale Mountain habitats are where some 50 species of animals and other primates have been recorded, predominant among these being representatives from various monkey and ape families, including yellow baboons and the Red Colobus Monkey.

Photo credit: flickr – Red Colobus Monkey

Besides its incredible array of monkey and ape families, over 90 unique species of fish can be found swimming in the clear waters of the lake.

With minimal road access and a somewhat secluded location, Mahale Mountains National Park is not only regarded as one of Tanzania’s most remote and unspoiled national parks, but one of its most enthralling and exhilarating wilderness areas and safari destinations. This makes Mahale a not-to-be-missed bucket-list wilderness destination for all avid explorers, adventurous wildlife and birdlife enthusiasts, and daring off-the-beaten-path travelers visiting Tanzania.

By far one of the top things to do in Tanzania, and certainly the most thrilling too, is exploring the wild and wonderful Mahale Mountains National Park on foot with an experienced guide. Beyond all the remarkable up-close chimpanzee sightings, and other wildlife, ape, and monkey species you will encounter, be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbs through dense vegetation – One thing is for sure though, it promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and the final reward is well worth the trials and tribulations of getting there!

#9 Tarangire National Park

Located in Northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is renowned for its baobab trees spread across its vast grassy landscapes, thrilling African wilderness safaris, exceptional game viewing, remarkable bird watching, and infamous elephant migration, boasting one of the largest populations of elephants in the country.

The best time to visit Tarangire is during its dry season from July to September when it’s incredible and diverse wildlife can be spotted gathering along the river – This allows for excellent game viewing opportunities and up-close wildlife sightings and encounters.

During Tarangire National Park’s dry season, visitors and wildlife lovers can expect to see large herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, waterbucks, giraffes, impala, elephants, gazelle, hartebeest, badgers, monkeys, mongoose, baboons, African wild dogs, and eland in and around the park’s lagoons and grassy landscapes. In addition to its amazing variety of wildlife, Tarangire’s famous tree-climbing lions are undoubtedly one of its top wildlife highlights and sought-after sightings.

Tarangire National Park is also known as a true bird lover’s paradise, as more than 550 different species of birds frequent the park.

#10 Arusha National Park

Another top tourist attraction in Tanzania is Arusha National Park. While it may be considerably smaller than many of Tanzania’s other popular national parks and game reserves, Arusha National Park boasts a unique diversity of landscapes and habitats. Some of its distinctive habitats include lush grasslands and vast greenery, the extraordinary forests of Mount Meru, the infamous Ngurdoto Crater and its verdant hillsides (situated in the southeast section of the park), and the notorious Momella Lakes, which essentially consists of seven crater lakes. The vast and varied habitats and environments found within Arusha gives rise to its remarkable and rich biodiversity between its borders.

Each of Arusha National Park’s exclusive habitats have something different to offer visitors and wildlife enthusiasts. The forested area of Mount Meru is famous for its black and white Colobus monkeys, which can easily be spotted jumping around and hanging about. The marshy floor of the Ngurdoto Crater on the other hand is dotted with herds of buffalo, zebra, rhino, warthogs, elephants, bushbucks, lions, leopards, and giraffes, allowing for some truly spectacular wildlife sightings.

The notorious Arusha Momella Lakes is home to a large selection of resident, exotic, and migrant birds, some of which include crowned eagles, woodpeckers, hornbills, egrets, guinea fowl, pelicans, geese, storks, and glorious flocks of flamingos.

Photo credit: flickr – Glorious flocks of Flamingos

While most of Tanzania’s national parks are exclusively centred around wildlife encounters and safaris, Arusha National Park offers visitors the very best of both worlds. Arusha is not only known for its incredible wildlife and birdlife sightings, but its exciting variety of outdoor recreation activities and thrilling wilderness adventures too. From exhilarating hiking and climbing expeditions, to invigorating canoe trips and action-packed walking safaris – Arusha National Park has a riveting and extraordinary experience and adventure for everyone to enjoy.

**Bonus: Another one of the top things to do in Tanzania is climb the legendary Mount Meru.

Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania as well as one of the most iconic and beautiful volcanoes in Africa. The summit of Mount Meru is reached via a narrow ridge , which features magnificent views of the volcanic cone located several thousand feet below in the crater. While the ascent to reach the Mount Meru summit is steep and rather challenging, the route to the top passes through beautiful forests, parklands, as well as a giant heather zone and moorland.

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• 20 Unmissable Attractions In Tanzania

20 Unmissable Attractions in Tanzania

Although Tanzania is largely renowned as a world-class wildlife destination, there is so much more the country affords—from protected marine reserves to ancient sites of historical significance. Pristine beaches and turquoise waters make for a stunning and unique contrast to golden grasslands and game-filled plains, setting Tanzania up as the perfect location for a surf-and-turf kind of break. Here are 20 attractions you just can’t miss .

1. lake manyara.

Two thirds of Lake Manyara National Park are covered by waters of the same name. Home to thousands of flamingos and other diverse wildlife, the serene and picturesque lake is ideal for bird watching and canoe safaris.

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania , +255 765 665 543

Lake Manyara wildlife | © Leon F. Cabeiro/Flickr

2. Matema Beach

Metema Beach on Lake Malawi is slightly off the usual tourist track and offers peaceful tranquility in a beautiful setting. Situated at the foothills of the Livingstone Mountains, this heavenly spot is great for swimming, and the more active can hike to the nearby waterfall.

Matema Beach, Tanzania

Matema Beach | Clown23/WikiCommons

The Big Five

Undeniably one of Tanzania’s most popular attractions, the Big Five consist of the lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard and rhino. Almost all of these are easy to spot in any one of the country’s amazing wildlife parks and reserves.

3. Prison Island

Once an outback for convicted prisoners, today Prison Island , also known as Changuu Island, is most visited for its resident colony of Giant Aldabra tortoise, an endangered species that arrived in Zanzibar as a gift from the government of the Seychelles . Some are over 100 years old and amble peacefully among other wildlife that includes colorful peacocks and butterflies, as well as shy buck.

Prison Island, Tanzania

Prison Island jetty | © James H/Flickr

4. Mount Meru

Located in the Arusha National Park , this mountain is the fifth-highest on the African continent and the second-highest in Tanzania. Its fertile slopes rise above the surrounding savannas and are covered in lush and beautiful forests where birds and monkeys thrive. Although leopards are also known to frequent the area, they are notoriously difficult to spot.

Mount Meru, Tanzania

Waterfall on Mount Meru | © Yoni Lerner/WikiCommons

5. House of Wonders

Also sometimes referred to as the Palace of Wonders, this remarkable structure overlooks the waterfront of Stone Town and features enormous, carved doors that are said to be the largest in East Africa. Inside the rise of striking tiers of both pillars and balconies, one will find the National Museum of History and Culture, showcasing Swahili culture and the people of the Indian Ocean.

House of Wonders, Sokoku St, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 754 710 807

Inside the House of Wonders | © Moongateclimber/WikiCommons

6. Serengeti Hippo Pool

If you are willing to put up with the smell, then the Hippo Pool in the Serengeti National Park affords excellent hippo sightings, where hundreds of these large creatures vie for space in a relatively small, muddy pool while river carp jump around in the water.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania , +255 27 250 3471

Serengeti Hippo Pool | © J Fauteux/Flickr

7. Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre

Housing a great selection of modern and antique art, the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre is a place where Tanzania’s past mingles with its present. Explore the history of more than 100 tribes that inhabit the country and pick up carvings, books, gemstones and clothing to take home as souvenirs.

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, Arusha, Tanzania, +255 27 250 7496

Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre | © Prasad Pillai/Flickr

The annual wildebeest migration

Famed the world over as one of the most spectacular natural shows on earth, the great wildebeest migration means thousands of visitors flock to Tanzania every year to witness this impressive event. The action takes place in the Serengeti National Park , as wildebeest and zebra follow age-old migratory paths in search of fresh grazing land.

8. Jozani Forest

Forest, Park

9. Old Fort

The Old Fort is the oldest building in Zanzibar and one of Stone Town’s most popular attractions. The edifice, with its pale orange ramparts, was built by Omani Arabs when they seized the island from the Portuguese in 1698. Over the years it has been used to house everything from a prison to a tennis club.

Old Fort, Mizingani Rd, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 659 788 828

Old Fort in Zanzibar | © Inisheer/WikiCommons

10. Mafia Island

Mafia Island is surrounded by a protected marine park and attracts the interest of scuba divers and snorkelers from around the world. The clear waters showcase an excellent coral garden that attracts scores of tropical fish and the island is also a traditional breeding ground for the green turtle, a species that is close to extinction.

Mafia Island, Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

Mafia Island | © Gill Penney/WikiCommons

11. Mount Kilimanjaro

Natural Feature

12. Mto Wa Mbu

Mto Wa Mbu, meaning ‘River of Mosquitoes’, is a bright and vibrant village in the Arusha region of Tanzania . It is a favorite pit-stop for travelers and offers everything from petrol to souvenir stalls selling trinkets, crafts and blankets. The village is also a good place to pick up fresh fruit, while the local inhabitants are said to represent just about all of Tanzania’s 120 tribal groups.

Mto Wa Mbu, Arusha, Tanzania

Maasai blanket sellers on the streets of Mto Wa Mbu | © Roman Boed/Flickr

13. Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is over three million years old and the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world. Thousands of wild animals graze the verdant crater floor that is blessed with a permanent supply of water and abundant vegetation. Besides the animals, the natural panoramas that Ngorongoro provides are a treat for the eyes, and bird watching is superb in the area. Another highlight is the Olduvai Gorge, an archaeological site situated on a series of fault lines, where centuries of erosion have revealed fossils and remnants of early mankind.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater | © Anja Pietsch/Flickr

14. Forodhani Gardens

These pretty gardens are located near the shoreline of historic Stone Town , and serve as a meeting point and melting pot of cultures and cuisine—especially when the sun goes down. Sunset sees the appearance of a highly popular food market, located in the main square, that serves up Swahili and Zanzibar delicacies, such as grilled seafood, samosas, cassava and sweet potatoes.

Forodhani Gardens, Zanzibar Town, Tanzania, +255 762 039 310

Forodhani food market at night | © Rod Waddington/WikiCommons

15. Pemba Island

This gorgeous island is adorned with lush, green hills and clove plantations, and presents visitors with picture-perfect sights. The Pemba Channel, with its coral reefs and abundant marine life, separates the island from mainland Tanzania and is a highly popular diving site. The main town of Chake-Chake keeps visitors busy with a ruined 18th-century fort and museum.

Pemba Island, Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

Pemba at sunset | © Marcel Oosterwijk/Flickr | © Marcel Oosterwijk / Flickr

16. Kitulo Plateau

The Kitulo Plateau is located within the southern highlands of Tanzania and referred to by locals as The Garden of God. The protected area of montane grassland holds much unique flora, such as orchids, and, in 2005, field scientists discovered a new species of primate on and around Mount Rungwe and in the Livingstone Forest area of the plateau.

Kitulo Plateau National Park, Makete, Tanzania

Kitulo Plateau | © Jojona/WikiCommons

Isimila Stone Age site

The Isimila archaeological site is one of the most significant Stone Age finds ever identified, scattered amid a dramatic landscape of eroded sandstone pillars. Tools found on the site include hammerstones, axeheads, flints and scrapers that are estimated to be between 60,000 and 100,000 years old. There is also a small museum on site.

17. The Rock Restaurant

Restaurant, African, Seafood

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Home » Travel Guides » Tanzania » 15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

Tanzania is the revered promised land at the end of the Great Rift Valley; a colossal cut-out of East Africa that’s really not like anywhere else in the region. It ranges from the powder-sand beaches of glimmering white on the Zanzibar Archipelago to the cloud-beating, snow-topped summits of monstrous Mount Kilimanjaro in the north.

Elephants and leopards come face to face in its hinterlands; African wild dogs prowl under the shade of bulbous baobab trees. Christians and Muslins share the cities, and there are even relics of voodoo-practicing shamans on the far-flung cays. It’s a place tailormade for the safari goer just as much as the SCUBA diver; a picturesque country that’s perfect for budding trekkers and explorers (did we mention that this one has Africa’s highest peak?), just as it is for culture buffs and history lovers.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Tanzania :

Don’t knock us for ditching the safari parks and picking picture-perfect Unguja (the kingpin of Zanzibar) for the top spot! If only you could see just how aquamarine the waters were here (move over Cote d’Azur!), how soft the sands; how immersive those Swahili marketplaces, we’re certain you would have too.

Once trodden by sultans and British imperialists, the capital of Stone Town here bursts with coral-stone forts, Persian palaces, and European frontispieces.

And then there are the beaches, from seaweed-spattered Kendwa to whiter-than-white Nungwi and its salt-washed bungalows on the shore.

Hey, this little isle in the Indian Ocean really did earn its place as the byword for tropical perfection!

2. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

A reserve that surely needs no introduction, the exotic reaches of the Mount Kilimanjaro National Park have been a symbol of Africa’s rich biodiversity and eye-popping backcountry since they were first inaugurated by the German colonists back in the 1920s.

Today, they magnetise backpackers and intrepid walkers, who flock to strap on the hiking boots and scale the summit of Africa’s highest peak.

There are oodles of options for those eager to get to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, ranging from the easy-going Marangu trek to the panoramic Machame route.

On top of that there’s game viewing to boot, with creatures like the hardy tree hyrax, colobus monkeys and elephants all roaming the wilds.

3. Ruaha National Park

Sprawled out over an area almost exactly the size of Wales, the Ruaha National Park has expanded and expanded over the years to become the single largest game reserve in the entire of East Africa.

Today, it ranges more than 20,000 square kilometers over baobab forests, gallery woods and acacia-dotted plains.

And despite its size, Ruaha’s relative inaccessibility ensures there are no booming crowds of safari-goers here.

Instead, the game experience is up-close-and-personal, with cheetahs and leopards and wild dogs all part of the action.

You can also expect a large elephant population, with estimated numbers putting the population at over 100,000 individuals.

4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is nothing short of legendary on the safari circuit of East Africa.

A huge dustbowl of savannah and fig tree forests, undulating hills of mud-caked plains and dramatic cliffs, it’s delineated by the colossal caldera of an ancient volcano – the largest of its kind on the planet, in fact.

Hidden behind the serrated peaks that make the great crater, the wildlife here has been able to thrive and survive like nowhere else on the continent.

You’ll find rare crater lions and black rhinoceroses, blue wildebeest and the endemic Tanzanian cheetahs, all of which roam the lost hinterland between the peaks.

5. Stone Town

Okay, so historic Stone Town has already had a mention along with picture-perfect tropical Unguja, the Zanzibar island where it makes its home.

But this fascinating place is worthy of a listing in its own right too.

After all, there’s really nothing that can live up to its immersive patchwork of Omani forts and arabesque houses, the richly-adorned House of Wonders (once trodden by sultans) and Persian hammams left over from the Arabs.

There’s also an Anglican church that sticks out like sore thumb, and a palpability to the Swahili culture here that’s not on offer elsewhere in Tanzania.

6. Selous Game Reserve

UNESCO-attested and hailed by loyal safari-goers the world over, the Selous Game Reserve is a real monster of an area.

It encompasses no less than 54,000 square kilometers in the heart of south-eastern Tanzania, and boasts a biodiversity to match.

There are hippos in the ox-bow lakes, swaying baobab trees, wandering elephants at the mud fords, marauding wild dogs, and Cape buffalos to name just a few of the eye-catching fauna.

Come and explore this vast hinterland of miombo woodland and seasonal floodplains along the Rufiji River, and you’re in for a true experience of the African wilds!

Kigoma is beset by the deep blue waters of Lake Tanganyika, which encompasses the town on three sides.

Boats bob around its timber jetties, while larger ships graze against the shores here too.

In fact, the town represents one of the major ports on the water, and vessels still ferry passengers all the way from Kigoma to Zambia during the week.

The town is known for its ease-of-access to the chimp-dotted forests of the Gombe National Park, the trekking trails of the Mahale Mountains, and for the sandy beaches and lapping waters that make it a great place to kick-back and relax inland.

8. Tarangire National Park

The mixture of scrawny acacia boughs and the colossal outlines of baobab trees make the landscapes of Tarangire National Park ones to remember.

They sit on the edge of the northern Crater Highlands of the country, close to Ngorongoro and the sprawling city of Arusha.

Crisscrossed by countless herds of wildebeest and zebra, impala and bucks, the area makes for fine game viewing.

However, there are two more treats awaiting in the backcountry here worth of remark: the otherworldly termite mounds that pepper the plains, and the large population of wild elephants that can often be seen roaming.

Shrouded by the chipped and chiselled peak of Mount Meru, the fifth-highest in all of Africa no less, the hubbub of metropolitan Arusha does well to keep communion with nature.

It’s a town that still bears the hallmarks of its founders: the Maasai pastoralists.

They come out in the throbbing, colorful markets and bazaars, where prayer beads click and livestock squawks behind the emporiums.

There are immersive coffeehouses too, along with oodles of tour operators offering intrepid excursions out to conquer the top of 4,500-meter-high Meru; forever beckoning on the horizon.

10. Pemba Island

As of yet undiscovered Pemba sits out in to the swells of the Indian Ocean, picking up on the tropical beauty front where the white beaches of the Swahili Coast left of on mainland Tanzania.

A part of the same island chain as impossibly-beautiful Zanzibar, the spot comes imbued with some of East Africa’s most colourful coral gardens, each teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life.

However, leave the diving dhows of the coast behind for a moment and go in search of Pemba’s curious past of voodoo witchcraft and medieval Ndagoni ruins, and you’re sure not to leave disappointed!

11. Mafia Island

Despite the somewhat unsavoury name of this little jewel in the Indian Ocean, its shimmering white sands and swaying palm tree groves are not the home of any cigar-touting fat cats out of Chicago by way of Sicily.

Nope, far from being a Mafioso stronghold, this one is actually a tropical paradise; a part of the Zanzibar Archipelago no less! Shaped like a jutting rhino horn, it’s surrounded by glowing beaches of alabaster white, and comes fringed with gardens of coral reef where the pygmy hippo sloshes in the water.

Unsurprisingly, SCUBA is top of the menu!

12. Serengeti National Park

For many, simply the world Serengeti is synonymous with the iconic wilderness of East Africa; places where the unmistakable outlines of long-necked giraffes drift against the rock-ribbed backdrop of Ngorongoro Conservation Area; where swaying savannah grasses camouflage the stalking leopards, and lazy lion prides recline in the acacias.

Serengeti has achieved its fame thanks to the presence of the so-called Big Five game, while luxury lodges mix with eco camps, drawing all sorts of safari goers to its climes.

Yep, this one certainly promises to be one to write home about!

13. Arusha National Park

Ranging from the alkaline lakes of Momella to the verdant hillsides of the Ngurdoto Crater, Arusha National Park is a place of such varied habitats and environments that it’s easy to see why there’s such a rich biodiversity between its borders.

Sat close to the city of the same name in the northern reaches of the nation, it’s a place where safari goers come to spy curious colobus monkeys in the boughs, or wonder at the moving pink wisps of flamingo flocks against the watering holes.

It’s not as famous as the country’s other big game sites, but it is off-the-beaten-track and less crowded during the high season.

14. Katavi National Park

The jewel of the Katavi Region of the west is a vast floodplain that reaches out to where the lands give way to Lake Tanganyika on the border with the DRC. It’s a wonderful destination for game viewers, made popular thanks to the predominance of mudholes and watering spots that appear when the rains hit.

Around these croc-infested rivers and pools, you should be able to spy out hippos and zebras, elephants and cheetah.

What’s more, thanks to its far-fling position in the west, Katavi receives just a fraction of the safari goers as Arusha or Serengeti.

15. Dar es Salaam

A whopping four million people call the seemingly endless metropolis of Dar es Salaam their home.

It’s a city that’s burst from its seams in the last couple of decades, with huge port districts popping up to receive all the cargo vessels from across the Indian Ocean.

Today, that mercantile boom has translated into a city of virtually boundless energy and character.

Fish markets sprawl around the Kivukoni Front, where the hawkers haggle for fish cuts and seafood.

Harbourside depots now dwarf the old church spires that stood here before the big change.

Daladala vans purr through the streets.

Enjoy the lived-in energy and excellent National Museum before making a beeline for the beautiful beaches and islands along the shore.

15 Best Places to Visit in Tanzania:

• Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
• Ruaha National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Selous Game Reserve
• Tarangire National Park
• Pemba Island
• Mafia Island
• Serengeti National Park
• Arusha National Park
• Katavi National Park
• Dar es Salaam

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

• Last Updated On: August 28, 2021

In the middle of East Africa, sandwiched between Kenya and Mozambique , lies one of the most beautiful countries in the world – Tanzania.

Teeming with life and wilderness, Tanzania is the perfect destination spot for anyone looking for a vacation.

Relatively inexpensive, covered with wildlife zoos, safari parks, and hiking trails, Tanzania is the ideal spot for anyone looking for adventure!

Tanzania Visa Process

Now that you know where to go, it’s time to consider how. Luckily, getting into Tanzania is pretty easy and requires minimal documentation.

All you need is a passport with at least 6 months validity and a tourist e-Visa.

Tanzanian e-Visa

To make things easier for you, Tanzania, like other countries, has embraced the e-Visa system, which makes acquiring a visa a lot easier.

e-Visas are electronic permissions generated by your desired country. They are a lot easier to apply for and acquire as the application process is done entirely online, from home, and does not require any formal paperwork to be filed or for you to visit an Embassy!

The eligibility criterion requires the applicant to be at least 18 years of age, have a valid passport with an expiration date due after being out of Tanzania, and have no serious criminal convictions.

Residents of eligible countries can apply online on tanzanianvisa.com and get an e-Visa in as little as 10 business days. Hurry up and apply now to receive the approved document via email!

Top Attractions to Try While in Tanzania

However, much like with all vacations, unless you know what to do and where to go, it just isn’t fun, and researching is a soul-sucking task on its own.

So, what’s one to do? Luckily, we have a list of the top-rated tourist attractions for you, ready to go!

From beaches through mountaintops to wildlife safaris, we have everything lined up. Let’s get started.

• Mount Kilimanjaro 

Easily one of the most sought-after tourist attractions, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and the fourth-highest peak globally.

The snowy-capped mountain peak is a sight to behold for all tourists who choose to visit. The Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is the place to be to experience the stunning scenery of the cloud-cutting mountain.

If you’re more of the adventuring sort, you can even choose to climb it! Mount Kilimanjaro is famously dubbed as ‘Every Man’s Everest’ because it is the most accessible peak with about 6 hiking routes, each with different levels of difficulty.

You can choose to climb only a little bit and experience the farmlands with tons of wildlife and green pastures or decide to go a bit above and beyond towards the alpine forests, which are home to the most famous Birds of Prey. Or you can choose to hike all the way to the top to the snow-laden peaks and take in the view!

• Zanzibar Beaches 

After topping one of the highest mountains, why not go down to the sea? Zanzibar archipelago is made up of the islands of Zanzibar and Pemba and has some of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Clear shallow water lined with the finest white sand makes up a view that can only be called ‘once-in-a-lifetime.’

You can go swimming, simply enjoy the waves, or even choose to go for a boat ride. The Zanzibar beaches are not only one of the top tourist attractions in Tanzania, but the whole world, and for a good reason.

• Ruaha National Park 

Ruaha National Park, named after the Great Ruaha River that runs along its Southeast border, is Tanzania’s largest safari park. Spanning over 7,800 square miles, Ruaha National Park is home to Africa’s largest predators, from lions, cheetahs to hyenas and jackals- there is not one predator species you can’t find here.

The park consists of a variety of habitats, from open hills to vast grasslands, as well as dense acacia and miombo woodlands. There are also plenty of baobab tree groves that are home to many different bird species.

The Ruaha River houses its crocodiles and hippos, while the best place to meet an elephant is in its grasslands. You can opt for a guided drive through the park or even choose to drive on your own if you’re more of the independent sort.

• Lake Manyara National Park 

Composed of a series of woodlands, grasslands, swamps, and forests, Lake Manyara Park is home to tons of species. This lake offers sights for all bird lovers, from pink flamingoes lining its shores to storks and kingfishers gobbling up fish. However, birds aren’t the only attraction here.

Lake Manyara is also where you’ll find the largest concentration of baboons worldwide, as well as hippos, elephants, and tree-climbing lions, all of which can be viewed up close, unlike other wildlife parks.

Safari drives, canoeing, bird-watching, and freestyle exploration are all the things you can do to have a blast at Lake Manyara!

• Serengeti National Park 

What sets Serengeti apart from all the others, though, is its migration season. From May to early June, millions of wild animals pass through Serengeti to migrate.

In this migration, you can spot hundreds of thousands of deer, gazelles, zebras, making it a sight to behold and the primary reason for Serengeti’s fame.

This migration is what draws in the most tourists making the Serengeti National Park one of the top-rated tourist attractions out there.

Final thoughts

With that, we conclude our list of the top-rated tourist attractions in Tanzania.

We hope you have lots of fun on your trip and enjoy every second of your vacation with the help these top-rated attractions to include in your Tanzania trip itinerary!

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8 Most Charming Places in Tanzania

Found along the coast of East Africa is the great nation of Tanzania . Not the most well-known country in Africa, Tanzania has quietly become one of the upstart places in Africa, boasting a burgeoning and booming tourism industry. Known for its breathtaking landscape, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture, Tanzania is surely to make a good first impression.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the largest nature reserve in Tanzania. In 2008, it merged with the neighboring Usangu Game Reserve, now covering more than 20,000km². There are campsites located all over the park, which make for perfect vantage points from which to see the wildlife up close.

Going on a safari here is like no other. There are endless ways to explore the park, all with a warm and helpful guide to help along the way. Most of these safaris are done from the safety of a car, whereas others are conducted on boats. The animals that you will see and the people that you will meet are going to create memories that last a lifetime.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Another one of Tanzania's stellar national parks, the Mahale Mountains, is located along the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika in eastern Tanzania. Initially created to protect a large segment of Tanzania's chimpanzee population, the park has become a world-class tourist destination.

The Greystone Mahale Camp is particularly stunning. This one-of-a-kind lodge is the perfect place to go on a romantic getaway with your significant other. There are, of course, plenty of guided tours inland to observe and occasionally interact with the various groups of chimpanzees that call the park home.

Nyerere National Park

Located on in Eastern Tanzania, the Nyerere National Park transports its guests into the thick of the African savannah . Guests can enjoy this park any way they want. There are traditional safaris, boat safaris, and even the option to survey the park from a hot air balloon.

Tours into the bush are also available. This allows guests to observe the wildlife up close and personal. It also gives visitors the chance to visit some of the remote villages that are located within the park. The locals here are famous for their warm demeanor and hospitality .

Mafia Island

Despite its name having a somewhat foreboding name, Mafia Island couldn't be further removed from any semblance of violence or organized crime. Located along the east coast of Tanzania, Mafia Island's pristine beaches and crystal blue water are nothing short of magical.

Mafia Island's beaches are a hotspot for nesting turtles, and its shallow waters teem with marine life. For those daring enough, the best months to spot whale sharks are from October to February. Even if aquatic life is not to your taste, the laid-back and peaceful nature of the island is enough to make this a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Sitting along its northern border with Kenya is Mount Kilimanjaro , the largest mountain in Africa. Sitting at roughly 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) tall, Kilimanjaro looms over the vast plains of the African savannah.

Climbing to the summit of the mountain is no easy feat, but reaching the top is certainly worth it. For those who have no interest in hiking up Kilimanjaro, there is a fantastic national park available. The park offers tons of tours led by accommodating and friendly guides.

Lake Manyara National Park

Found in the north of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is another great destination for those wanting to get a closer look at the spectacular African wildlife. There are numerous tours available that grant visitors the chance to observe herds of elephants , curious giraffes, and even lion pride.

Aside from the traditional methods of looking at wildlife, there is also a tree-top canopy walk in some places. This gives the park's guests a new and unique way of viewing different kinds of primates and exotic birds. It is a great place to take friends and family.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera . The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife and is the perfect place to go if you want to experience a more traditional safari. The land is home to all the stable animals one would expect, along with the semi-nomadic Maasai nomads who still live and hunt in the area.

There are dozens of high-end resorts guests have to choose from. If staying at a resort is not to your liking, then there are various campsites set up throughout the park that all come with a surprising amount of comfort despite being in the middle of the wilderness. The staff who work at these accommodations are more than happy to help and assist wherever they are needed.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off the east coast of Tanzania. There is a lot to do in Zanzibar, and it has quietly become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Tanzania. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time at the beach or want to explore the city itself, there is something here for everyone.

The Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve is a great place to visit, especially for wadding in the warm turquoise blue water and shallow sandbank that the island is famous for. The old quarter of Zanzibar is another great attraction. Filled with a rich history and Arabian-infused architecture and culture, the city of Zanzibar is one of the more unique places in Africa. Its charm and energy are apparent the moment you arrive.

Discover Tanzania’s Hidden Charms

Tanzania is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. Home to an endless amount of attractions and entertainment, it is no wonder more people are deciding to come and visit every year. No matter if you want to explore the county's wildlife or take a relaxing vacation on the beach, Tanzania has all of its bases covered.

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Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

The United Republic of Tanzania is a country found in the Eastern part of Africa. It shares borders with Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Comoros Islands and the Indian ocean. The highest point in the country is in Mount Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa). Tanzania is home to some of the oldest inhabited areas on the planet.

Fossils have been discovered at Olduvai Gorge dating back to over 2 million years ago. These early humans were then replaced by hunters/gatherers related to the Khoisan in Southern Africa. After these early gatherers and hunters, tribes from West Africa started migrating and settling in the country 2,000 years ago. The first foreigners (outside Africa) into the country where Arab and Persian traders. They were then joined in 1498 by the first Europeans lead by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The Portuguese settled in the coast for a relatively short time before being driven out by the Arabs. Later on, Germany colonized the country before Britain took over after world war 1. Throughout this time, the islands on the Indian ocean like Zanzibar were governed separately. During the independence in 1964, mainland Tanzania merged with the Zanzibar archipelago to form the United Republic of Tanzania.

Tanzania’s economy depends a lot on agriculture and tourism. Tourism contributes about 17.5 percent to the country’s GDP and over 1.3 million tourists visit the country each year. Because of this, the tourism industry in the country is highly developed compared to that of many countries in Africa. Tanzania has some of the best tourist attractions in the world. 38 percent of land in the country is protected or reserved for conservation related purposes. The country has 17 national parks, 40 reserves and several marine parks. Tanzania is one of the top four countries to go for a safari in Africa. Although Kenya enjoys more publicity as a safari destination, Tanzania is special and amazing when it comes to variety. Tanzania offers amazing cultural experiences, beautiful landscape, beaches and wildlife encounters that are second to none. From the breathtaking wildebeest migration in the Serengeti to the exotic beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania has it all and more. You can also read about the top attractions in Kenya or the things to do in Uganda .

Things to do in Tanzania

The Great Rift Valley: The East African rift valley passes through Tanzania leaving behind amazing features like lakes, rivers, hot springs, geysers and volcanoes. Some of the lakes found on the floor of Tanzania’s part of the rift valley are Lake Tanganyika, Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, Lake Eyasi, Lake Victoria and Lake Makati. Most of these lakes are shallow and are blessed with amazing biodiversity.

If you cannot meet them in the national parks, you will find the Masai selling souvenirs/curios in weekly markets all over the country. If you are lucky to meet those in villages close to the parks, then you will be taken for a truly amazing cultural experience. You will have opportunities to enter their traditional huts, listen to stories from their elders, watch cultural performances and participate in their jumping ceremonies. The one who jumps the highest wins an award.

Tanzanian Souvenir: One of the interesting things about traveling is the chance to get unique gifts and souvenir. Tanzania has countless artisan shops, malls and other outlets where tourists can buy beautiful local products as gifts to friends back home. For the best original Masai products while in Arusha, go to Maasai Market Curio and Crafts. They sell beautiful hand built jewelry, Masai blankets and basket painting. If you chance to visit the Masai communities while in the national parks, do not forget to buy souvenirs from them. The Masai sell beautiful clothing, handbags and beads. I guess we shouldn’t go on about this as we already discussed it earlier.

Arusha : Arusha is often referred to as the safari capital of Tanzania. The city is found on the slopes of Mount Meru and was constructed in the 19 th century as a regional administrative capital by the Germans. It is where most tourists stop at while on their way to visiting the Ngorongoro crater, the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and other nearby national parks. If you happen to stop in the city on your way to or from the national parks, take time to discover the hidden attractions in Arusha . There is a lot to discover in this beautiful city ranging from hot springs, cultural centers, souvenirs and night clubs.

Selous Game Reserve : Selous Game Reserve is located in the southern part of the county. It covers an area of about 54,600 square kilometers and has additional protective zones outside its main boundaries. It was named after Sir Frederick Selous who died in 1917 while fighting against the Germans in the first great war. Frederick was a great game hunter who later turned into a passionate conservationist. By sheer size alone Selous Game Reserve is almost four times the size of the Serengeti National Park. Much of the park consists of typical savanna grasslands, bushes, forests and rivers. Since its establishment, the park has grown to become a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Singita Grumeti Reserve: This is a private enterprise and conservation project next to the Serengeti National Park. It is run by Paul Tudor Jones under a leasing agreement with the government. The reserve lies in a strategic location (west of the Serengeti) – an area with breathtaking views of the wildlife. If you want to stay in one of the finest lodges while watching the great migration away from the crowds, then this is one place you should visit. It is expensive but you will have a private and memorable safari.

The Arusha Cultural Centre: If you are staying in Arusha for night or two after your trip to the Serengeti or nearby parks, then this is one place you must visit for a cultural experience and some souvenir shopping. The Arusha Cultural Centre showcases Tanzanian art in all its forms. It is one of the best places in the country to learn about Tanzania’s cultural history and heritage. After visiting the Centre, you can then relax at the coffee shop and restaurant.

Information about traveling to Tanzania

To enter Tanzania, you will most probably need to arrive through two of the country’s largest airports – The Kilimanjaro international airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport. Once in the country, you can board a bus or train from the big cities to any destination within the country. If you are arriving from Kenya, you can take a bus from Nairobi to Arusha and then to national parks like the Serengeti. Within a town or city, the best means of transport is using a private taxi or a small bus – known as Dalla-Dalla. These stop anywhere and do not have specific schedules or a fixed number of passengers. Tanzania has a good railway network connecting to its neighbors Kenya and Zambia. It may not be developed to the highest standards but it is safe. If you love adventure and marveling at beautiful scenery, then take a train.

In order to enter into the country, one needs to have a Tanzania visa. Visas can be obtained from the nearest Tanzanian embassy or diplomatic mission. It is also possible to obtain a visa from the airport and the different ports of entry into the country. Citizens of the East African Community and some SADC countries may not need a tourism Visa. The tourism visa costs about $50. Tanzania has not yet adopted the multiple entry East African Tourist Visa system that allows one enter countries in East Africa simultaneously. Before applying for the Tanzanian Visa, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months. Apply for the Tanzania visa here .

Before traveling to Tanzania, ensure that you have taken a yellow fever shot. A proof of inoculation will be required in form of a certificate. Malaria is a real threat in Tanzania and you need to take anti-malarial pills before traveling. You also need to consider vaccinating against hepatitis B, dengue fever, typhoid and tetanus (They are not a requirement like Yellow fever).

Like most countries in East Africa, tipping Guides, Rangers and hotel staff is something you need to consider. It may be a good or bad thing depending on your values. Regardless, it is important to note that many of the Guides and Hotel staff in developing countries are paid poorly. Some work only seasonally. It is therefore important to reward those who do an excellent job of ensuring that your time was spent well while in the country. You will need cash to pay for the tips. If you feel that giving tip creates a dependency syndrome, then simply thank them for any extra good work.

Tanzania has humid and hot climate for most of the year depending on the region you are visiting. The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season. The dry season falls in the months of May to July and also in the months of November to March. The rainy season also occurs twice but is more pronounced around April. You will therefore be surprised to find towns and cities close to mountains like Kilimanjaro and Meru colder than your country.

Last but not least, it is important to travel with proper clothing for both a standard safari and for the Indian ocean beaches. Bright colored clothes attract insects. Wear something white or put on khakis. Tanzanians are modest people and it would be wise to dress conservatively when away from the beach.

Uganda Safaris

• 1 Day Short Gorilla Trip
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 1 Day Jinja City Tour
• 2 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trek
• 2 Days Jinja Water Rafting
• 2 Days Murchison Falls Safari
• 2 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 3 Days Ssese Islands tour
• 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
• 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Experience
• 3 Days Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
• 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 3 Days Tour Murchison Falls
• 3 Days Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Lake Bunyonyi Tour
• 3 Days Lake Bunyonyi and Gorilla Trekking
• 4 Days Safari Murchison Falls
• 4 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 4 Days Kidepo Wildlife Tour
• 4 Days Uganda Wildlife Tour
• 5 Days Uganda Safari
• 5 Days Uganda Primates Safari
• 5 Days Murchison Falls Safari
• 5 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 6 Days Uganda Wildlife safari
• 6 Days in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth
• 6 Days in Kidepo and Murchison Falls
• 6 Days in Kibale, Bwindi and Murchison Falls
• 6 Days in Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimpanzees
• 7 Days Uganda Safari
• 8 Days Primates Safari
• 8 Days Gorillas and Masai Mara
• 9 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 9 Days Rwenzori Hiking Safari
• 10 Days Uganda Safari
• 11 Days Best of Uganda Safari
• 12 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda tour
• 15 Days Grand Uganda Safari

Rwanda Safaris

• 1 Day Gorilla Tour Rwanda
• 2 Days Gorilla Tour Rwanda
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates
• 7 Days Gorilla Trekking Rwanda and Primates
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Golden Monkeys
• 4 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tour and Golden Monkeys
• 2 Days Golden Monkey Trekking
• 6 Days Rwanda Safari
• 1 Day Kigali City Tour
• I Day Akagera National Park Safari
• 2 Days Akagera National Park Safari
• 3 Days Akagera National Park Safari
• 3 Days Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike
• 2 Days Nyungwe National Park Tour
• 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Combined Safaris

• 4 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 4 Days Bwindi Gorillas and Karisimbi Hike
• 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 7 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari
• 10 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Wildlife Safari
• 14 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 15 Days Uganda Rwanda Congo Safari

Short Uganda Tours

• 1 Day Gorilla Tour
• 2 Days Bwindi Gorilla Tour
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Tour
• 3 Days Ssese Island Tour
• 5 Day Uganda Wildlife Safari

Mission Africa Safaris is a leading Tour company in East Africa. We help put together amazing tours for Travelers in Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and The Democratic Republic of Congo. You can be one of them today!

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13 Top-Rated Natural Attractions in Tanzania.

Natural attractions in tanzania.

Natural Attractions in Tanzania are not only a Tourism pull to the East African region but also a dream destination for many. Tanzania is endowed with impressive natural landscapes ranging from vast wilderness areas to magnificent seascapes.

This Phenomenal Country is littered with amazing national parks that are among the best in Africa, while the islands of the Zanzibar archipelago offer a tropical paradise of exquisite proportions.

I have prepared a few Natural Attractions list since if I started writing all of them, it would last you the whole day reading. Without much ado, let’s delve in and see what we have.

13.) Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro, one of the most famous peaks in the world, attracts hikers from all over the world who want to reach its glacier peaks. With three volcanic cones, this dormant volcano bears the title of the highest mountain in Africa and rises on the clouds to 5,895 m (19,341 feet).

Day tours allow you to hike the lower terrain of the mountain and view spectacular landscapes. Experienced hikers can go on a larger expedition, on average nine days. The most popular seasons are the dry seasons (January to mid-March and June to October) as they offer better conditions and clearer prospects. Organize hikes with a tour operator. Make Kilimanjaro part of your holiday plans. It remains one of the natural attractions in Tanzania.

12.) Ngurdoto Crater.

Watch herds of buffalo among other wild animals in the swamp at the bottom of Ngurdoto Crater, a volcanic crater in the middle of a forest. This spectacular 100-meter deep caldera stretches approximately 3.6 km in diameter.

When two volcanic cones merged and collapsed, steep cliffs formed. Keep an eye out for reeds, black and white colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys. Note that there is no road to the crater and that you cannot descend into the swamp, but can stay on the edge and watch. Make the Ngurdoto Crater the centrepiece of your Arusha vacation route and discover the beauty of Nature.

11.) Seronera.

The small settlement of Seronera serves as a centre for human and wildlife activities throughout the Serengeti national park. The starting point for a large part of the balloon safaris and park safaris as well as a small runway for those who arrive by plane, the area is also on an important migration route. Get a close-up view of the park’s life cycle with spectacular views of big cats chasing their prey along the edges of waterholes.

10.) The Ngorongoro Crater.

A natural wonder, world heritage site, one of the most spectacle Natural Attractions in Tanzania. Ngorongoro Crater offers an oasis of life for a large population of native wildlife and the nomadic Maasai tribe.

The rich terrain of this huge volcanic crater covers around 260 km square in a nature reserve and is considered one of the largest inactive calderas in the world . Enjoy endless views and the densely populated highlands of the crater and observe wildebeests, zebras and one of the largest known populations of Maasai lions. Safaris are located in a strict nature reserve and give visitors access to the crater.

9.) Jozani Forest.

Take a close-up of the rare red colobus monkey in Jozani Forest, the only national park in Tanzania on the island of Zanzibar. In this 50 square kilometres park with mangroves, tropical forests and coral towels also dwarf frogs, Sykes monkeys, bushbabies, aders-duikers and apparently the legendary leopard of Zanzibar call Jozani Forest Home.

Night hyraxes keep company with more than 50 species of butterflies and 40 species of birds. Go on a safari to see the red colobus symbolizing Zanzibar’s conservation efforts. One of the Natural Attractions in Tanzania.

8.) Grumeti River.

The Grumeti River is part of the Serengeti National Park and serves as a safari area known for the animal crossing of rivers during large migrations by large herbivores. Basque crocodiles, herds of hippos, zebras, buffalos, lions, giraffes and colobus monkeys in black and white are among the many native wild animals in the region.

Migration usually takes place from late May to early July, but open vehicle safaris are possible all year round. The area is best reached by small light aircraft, and there are many small airfields nearby. Integrate the Grumeti River into your personalized itinerary for the Serengeti National Park.

7.) Mbudya Island.

Relax in the shades of lush greenery on Mbudya Island. Being one of the natural attractions in Tanzania, an uninhabited island with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. The turquoise water around the island is part of a marine reserve and offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling with a large number of colourful fish.

Several small hiking trails lead through dense forests and you can extend your stay at one of the campsites at the campsite. There are no hotels or snack bars, but you can have freshly caught fish or grilled lobsters on the beach. A 25-minute motorboat ride takes you from a local fishing community to the island.

6.) Ruaha National Park.

An iconic hilly landscape full of wild animals defines Ruaha National Park, one of the largest parks in Africa. Around 10,000 stray elephants and 571 species of birds live in open grasslands with an area of ​​45,000 km2 and 17,226 km2 wetlands, including hornbills, kingfishers and sunbirds, as well as white storks.

Go on a safari to see lions , leopards, giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, African wild dogs, lizards, cape buffalos and sand antelopes in their natural habitat along the Ruaha Gorges. An old German colonial hunting ground. Many natural springs and rivers attract large herbivores and predators. Planning your trip to Iringa is rewarding.

5.) The Usambara Mountains.

The incredible Usambara Mountains is located in the northeast of Tanzania. With their wide panoramas, their cool climate, their winding paths and their picturesque villages, the Usambara Mountains bargain to none as one of the Natural Attractions in Tanzania.

The Usambara Mountains are part of the old chain of the east arch, the mountains of which extend in a broken crescent from the hills of Taita in southern Kenya to Morogoro and the highlands of the south.

It is estimated that they are at least 100 million years old and the rocks they are made of can be up to 600 million years old. The mountains are home to an exceptional range of plants and animals and represent one of the highest biodiversity on the continent.

4.) cave waterfall.

On the slopes of Mount Meru near the Arusha National Park, there is a beautiful and calm cave waterfall at an altitude of 1940 meters.

It should be noted that certain rules must be observed when visiting the waterfall and tourists must be either in the presence of a travel Expert or a tour guide during their visit.

The water source is a river that its source is from the mountain, and at the bottom of the waterfall, there is a large swimming pool where tourists can swim under the guidance of tour guides or with a special permit from AUWASA. The hike to the waterfall is not that difficult and can be done easily by everyone.

3.) Mt Meru a Natural Attraction in Tanzania.

Mount Meru is located in the heart of the Arusha National Park and 80 km west of the Mount Kilimanjaro. Mount Meru stands out as one of the Natural Attractions in Tanzania, as is a massive volcano that boasts of 4,565 meters high.

This hike serves as an ideal warm-up phase for the mountain. Kilimanjaro due to its acclimatization to altitude and its walking distances. This hike is also intended for hikers who prefer fewer crowds and a difficult ascent.

Since Mount Meru is in Arusha National Park, hikers have to climb with a ranger due to the large number of wild animals living on the mountain . On the lower slopes of the mountain, hikers are more likely to see elephants, giraffes and buffalos! As the hikers continue their ascent, the trail follows the northern edge of the volcanic crater along a spectacular ridgeline.

During the ascent, the hiker`s accommodation is designated in huts along the way. Hikers reach the summit at sunrise and have a spectacular view of the Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount. Meru crater.

2.) Ol Doinyo Lengai, A Natural Attraction in Tanzania.

Ol Doinyo Lengai is another volcano known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language.  It is still an active volcano in the East African fault, which climbs to an altitude of 2,962 meters.

This unique mountain explodes in rare carbonatite lava. Instead of glowing, lava appears black, brownish or even silver-grey in the sun. It flows at a lower temperature than typical volcanoes – at 500-600 degrees Celsius or 932-1112 degrees Fahrenheit.

The viscosity of lava is also more fluid and moves faster than that of “ordinary” lava, but less viscous than water. Which offers a fascinating view when you see it flow. And when it dries, the lava will appear white in a few hours, creating a truly unique landscape. That you won’t see anywhere else in the world. The ash creates enriched pastures, paving the way for the annual wildebeest migration. Which is home to thousands of calves year after year.

1.) Tarangire National Park.

One of the highly regarded parks in Tanzania, Tarangire National Park has more than 700 lions, 450 species of birds and one of the highest concentrations of elephants in the world, the Tarangire ecosystem is one of the most vibrant and diverse in Tanzania. The park is also a beautiful sight with a constantly evolving landscape. The grassy savannas plunge into wide green swamps and huge termite mounds contaminate the landscape. Giant baobab trees provide shade for animals such as large herds of zebras and buffaloes. These Animals flock to the banks of the Tarangire River during the dry season. It is ideally advisable to plan a visit to Tarangire National Park.

Also Read-:

• 13 National Parks and reserves in Kenya you never knew existed
• 11 Unique Attractions in Tanzania you didn`t Know Existed
• 9 Things to do in Arusha and what is needed at the Border.

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Tanzania in Pictures: 20 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Feb 15, 2022

No other country in Africa has the wildlife and birdlife diversity you'll find in Tanzania. The wildebeest migration – perhaps the most stunning animal event in the world – crosses through the Serengeti every year. And those with a thirst for adventure can head to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest mountain, for the climbing experience of a lifetime.

As the world's oldest continent, Africa is also home to ancient ruins and cities, the Maasai people of East Africa, and some of the best safari parks you could ever ask for. Photographers won't have any trouble creating beautiful images. The picture possibilities are everywhere.

Whether you're heading to Tanzania for nature, history, or culture, here are some of the most beautiful places to photograph.

1. Serengeti National Park

2. lake manyara, 3. mount kilimanjaro national park, 4. ngorongoro crater, 5. lake victoria, 6. stone town, 7. kilwa kisiwani, 8. mahale mountains national park, 9. arusha national park, 11. lake natron, 12. zanzibar archipelago, 14. pemba island, 15. lake tanganyika, 17. olduvai gorge, 18. usambara mountains, 19. mafia island, 20. ruaha national park.

Wildlife is always in motion in the Serengeti. During the annual migration, over one million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras move across the park in search of greener, wetter pastures - if the Nile crocodiles don't get to them first. The Maasai people, who inhabit the park, are responsible for its name as well - the Maasai word siringet means "the place where the land runs on forever."

• Read More: Best Game Reserves in Africa

Another great place for wildlife photography, Lake Manyara National Park is home to over 350 bird species, including massive flocks of flamingos, pink-backed pelicans, and yellow-billed storks. All major mammals, including elephants and hippos, share a space of 325 square kilometers within the park boundaries.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

A dormant volcano, Mount Kilimanjaro is a major climbing and trekking destination. Most of the mountain is covered in forest, but new vegetation is gaining terrain as glaciers and ice fields melt away over the years. The Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, which surrounds the mountain, is home to a variety of animals, including Cape buffaloes and the rare blue monkey.

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera. From zebras grazing on Ngorongoro's grassland to the world's densest population of lions, the land around the crater is rich with natural wonders. Lake Natron, located within the park, is part of the largest breeding ground for flamingoes in East Africa.

Africa's largest lake – so large that it also occupies part of Kenya and Uganda – is a stunning sight at sunset. A source of food and life for many species of animals, Lake Victoria is home to hippos, Nile crocodiles, the giant cane rats, and a number of rare turtle species.

Stone Town is the Old Town section of port city Zanzibar. An area known for its architecture, Stone Town is home to a heavy stone fortress, buildings with Indian influence, stunningly carved wooden structures, and lots of stained glass. Once the center of the East African slave trade, Zanzibar now hosts an important museum and memorial chronicling that part of their history.

Among the ruins of this medieval sultanate, the 10th-century Great Mosque of Kilwa is particularly stunning. Some of the original pillars were carved from coral, with timber and lime mortar making up most of the walls and floors. Many parts of the ruins are not yet excavated.

One of only two protected areas in Tanzania for chimpanzees, the Mahale Mountains National Park can only be experienced on foot. There are no roads here, no infrastructure or shortcuts to get you to your destination. Travelers arrive by boat and then join a guided chimpanzee trek deep into the tropical jungle.

Although small at just 137 square kilometers, the park still offers a stunning game-viewing experience, with zebras, giraffes, and elephants taking over the landscape. Tanzania's second-highest peak, Mount Meru, is located within the park boundaries.

The Nungwi village in Zanzibar is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Africa . Cotton-soft, white sand; calm, reef-rich waters; and secluded corners attract snorkelers and swimmers all year long.

Salt Lake Natron is too dense and too alkaline to support most forms of life – except for the vast population of lesser flamingoes that call the area home. Over two million flamingoes depend on this location as their only breeding and feeding area (thanks to the large concentration of spirulina), resulting in stunning shades of pink against the horizon.

Facing the Indian Ocean and surrounded by picture-perfect coastline, Zanzibar is one of the most popular beach destinations in Africa. In addition to stunning golden sands, the archipelago is also famous for its spice production – the island is a major exporter of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

The sleepy fishing village of Kendwa still retains its traditional charm, even though its wide beach has become a popular tourist destination. Diving and snorkeling are popular here, but the village is also the starting point for many adventure tours, spice tours, and cultural trips to see how the local tribes live.

An off-the-beaten-track island that was once just known for its small-scale farming and traditional witchcraft medicine, Pemba is now a much-loved diving destination. Pemba features untouched coral, steep diving sites, and thick mangroves that roll into the golden sands.

The second-oldest freshwater lake in the world, Tanganyika is biologically unique and home to many rare species. Almost 16 percent of Earth's freshwater sits here. Palm-fringed, white beaches and colorful marine life make this one of the best lakes in Africa . It's a stunning destination for both adventurers and lovers of photography.

As Zanzibar's largest island, Unguja is certainly popular. Home to luxurious hotels and beautiful beaches, the archipelago also offers evergreen forests and diving opportunities for adventurers, as well as the old Stone Town for those wanting to explore history and culture. Spice farms and thick mangroves share the land here and make for some fascinating exploration.

An important paleoanthropological site, the Olduvai Gorge holds one of the best records of human evolution in all of Africa. This steep ravine, made up of red clay and sandstone, is 48 kilometers long and runs across the Serengeti Plains.

The Usambara Mountains are densely covered in virgin tropical rainforest and home to a large assortment of plants and animals. Picturesque nearby villages offer visitors a chance to discover colorful markets and plantations and can be used as starting points for trekking and adventure tours. Local guides can also organize more advanced treks.

Mafia Island's spectacular reefs make this a world-class snorkeling and diving destination, though the many kilometers of unspoilt beaches don't hurt either. The island's mangroves offer unique opportunities for bird-watching, or you can catch a boat to see whale sharks or rent a kayak to explore the turquoise waters on your own.

A massive 20,226 square kilometers in size, the park is home to many migratory birds, as well as excellent wildlife viewing that includes spotted hyenas, cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, and many other animals. The park is officially considered a Lion Conservation Unit, and it's one of the best places in Africa to encounter wild dogs.

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